Fascinating Vigan City Fiesta

 

"Boom... boom... boom" the loud sound of the bass drums echoed in my ears and caught my attention as I roam around the street. I got closer to the sound of the playing drums and lyres as the show is gonna start. I stand there as I watched the people happily and actively dancing as if they couldn't feel the tiredness as they move so fast while going with the beat. 

And then I remembered, it was Vigan City Fiesta now, which was held every January 25. It is celebrated during the feast day of the conversion of St. Paul the Apostle. St. Paul is Vigan City’s patron saint. Before his conversion, St. Paul was known as Saul, a zealous persecutor of Christians. After he was touched by a personal encounter with Jesus Christ on his way to Damascus, his name was changed to Paul and he endured a lot of hardships and danger to spread the word of God to far places. 

Biguenos from all over the country and even abroad return to Vigan, as it is the custom of Filipinos to return to their hometown to join their family and friends in the celebration of their fiesta. They are joined by thousands of visitors from other parts of the Philippines and other countries in enjoying the cultural shows, parades, and street dancing prepared by the local government with the help of the local industries and communities. There are also food fairs, arts and crafts exhibits, as, well as a visiting carnival. 

Being able to experience this kind of celebration was kind of fun, and surely it isn't easy to forget. The celebration every year is always so fascinating. Added more by the Longganisa festival, the street parade and, the grand showdown it just became more fun and unforgettable.