Siargao is widely celebrated as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines, but its true identity is deeply rooted in the traditions, values, and communal spirit of its people. Across the island, festivals serve as powerful expressions of gratitude, faith, resilience, and unity. These celebrations are not merely events for entertainment—they are living reflections of how Siargaoanons connect with the land, the sea, and one another.
From agricultural thanksgiving and environmental tributes to world-class sporting events and community-driven traditions, Siargao’s festivals shape the rhythm of island life. For travelers, these cultural celebrations offer a meaningful way to experience Siargao beyond its beaches and waves.
Hudyaka Festival (January | Dapa)
The Hudyaka Festival is Dapa’s signature celebration, marking the town’s foundation anniversary with energetic street performances and inter-municipality competitions. “Hudyaka” means celebration or festivity, and the event is known for its dynamic choreography, bold costumes, and lively drumbeats.
Often compared to large-scale Visayan festivals, Hudyaka showcases stories of island history, seafaring traditions, and daily life. It brings together students, cultural groups, and local organizations, strengthening unity across communities. As one of the earliest festivals of the year, Hudyaka sets a festive tone for Siargao’s cultural calendar.
Tinabangay Festival (February | Socorro)
The Tinabangay Festival represents the spirit of bayanihan, or communal cooperation. Rather than a single commercial event, Tinabangay is a living tradition seen in shared labor, collective rebuilding, and mutual support across communities.
This spirit becomes especially visible during harvests, town fiestas, disaster recovery efforts, and community projects. Tinabangay reflects Siargao’s resilience and compassion, showing that cooperation is not just celebrated—it is practiced daily.
Siargao International Game Fishing Tournament (April | Pilar)
The Siargao International Game Fishing Tournament in Pilar showcases the island’s strong connection to the sea. Anglers gather to compete in a friendly yet challenging tournament that emphasizes sportsmanship, sustainable fishing practices, and marine conservation.
The event also includes social gatherings, coastal festivities, and local food experiences that celebrate fishing as both a livelihood and a cultural tradition. For visitors, the tournament offers a unique opportunity to witness how the ocean continues to shape Siargao’s identity beyond surfing.
Karajawan Festival (June | General Luna)
The Karajawan Festival is a thanksgiving celebration that honors blessings received throughout the year. Featuring street dancing, traditional music, and theatrical performances, the festival portrays stories of farming, fishing, faith, and family life.
Karajawan is deeply rooted in community participation, with schools, barangays, and local groups working together. It embodies gratitude, unity, and cultural pride—key values in Siargaoanon identity.
Bakhaw Festival (July | Del Carmen)
Held in Del Carmen, the Bakhaw Festival honors the town’s vast mangrove forests—among the largest and most ecologically significant in the Philippines. “Bakhaw” means mangrove, and the festival celebrates how these forests protect coastal communities, support marine life, and sustain local livelihoods.
The event blends religious devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel with environmental advocacy. Street dances, cultural performances, and themed costumes depict mangrove conservation, fishing traditions, and climate resilience. The Bakhaw Festival serves as a reminder that environmental stewardship is an essential part of Siargao’s cultural identity and future.
Lukay-Lukay Festival (July | Burgos)
The Lukay-Lukay Festival is a vibrant celebration of Burgos’ coconut-based livelihood and its devotion to Saint Anne, the town’s patron saint. “Lukay” refers to coconut leaves, symbolizing the importance of the coconut tree as a source of food, shelter, and income for local families.
The festival features street dancing competitions, colorful costumes made from coconut materials, and community parades that showcase rural island life. Through music and movement, performers tell stories of farming, harvest, and faith—highlighting the deep relationship between the people of Burgos and their natural environment. Lukay-Lukay reflects gratitude, sustainability, and the pride of a community built around the “tree of life.”
Siargao Food & Wine Festival (August | General Luna)
The Siargao Food & Wine Festival highlights the island’s growing culinary scene while promoting local ingredients, farmers, and food artisans. Events include food tastings, pop-up kitchens, coffee crawls, cooking demonstrations, and discussions on sustainable food systems.
This festival reflects how Siargao’s culture continues to evolve—blending tradition with creativity and innovation. It celebrates the flavors of the island while supporting community-based tourism and local entrepreneurship.
Siargao International Marathon (September | Del Carmen)
Set against mangroves, coastal roads, and scenic landscapes, the Siargao International Marathon is both a sporting event and a cultural experience. Runners pass through quiet communities, offering a glimpse into everyday island life.
The marathon promotes health, eco-tourism, and environmental awareness while bringing together athletes, volunteers, and residents. It highlights Del Carmen’s commitment to sustainability and active lifestyles.
Tikyabang Festival (September | General Luna)
The Tikyabang Festival celebrates General Luna’s abundant crab harvest and honors Saint Thomas of Villanova, the town’s patron saint. “Tikyabang” refers to a local crab species, symbolizing the community’s reliance on coastal resources and fishing traditions.
Festival activities include seafood feasts, street parades, cultural shows, and community gatherings that highlight the importance of responsible fishing and marine sustainability. Tikyabang is both a thanksgiving celebration and a cultural reminder of how the sea continues to shape daily life in General Luna.
Siargao International Surfing Cup (October | Cloud 9)
Held every October, the Siargao International Surfing Cup is the island’s most internationally recognized event. Hosted at the iconic Cloud 9 surf break, it draws professional surfers, media, and spectators from around the world.
Beyond competition, the Surfing Cup celebrates Siargao’s surf culture through music events, art displays, beach gatherings, and community activities. It highlights how surfing has become part of the island’s modern identity—bridging local tradition with global culture while boosting tourism and local livelihoods.
Exploring Siargao’s festivals is best experienced with the right place to stay. SiargaoHotels.ph helps travelers find accommodations close to festival venues, beaches, and town centers—making it easy to enjoy cultural events while relaxing in comfort.
Final Thoughts
Siargao’s festivals are powerful expressions of identity—rooted in faith, gratitude, unity, and respect for nature. From the cooperative spirit of Tinabangay to international events like the Surfing Cup and Game Fishing Tournament, these celebrations reveal the heart of the island and its people.
Experience Siargao beyond the waves. Discover its culture—one festival at a time—with SiargaoHotels.ph.
