Many festivals in Cebu are expressions of gratitude by residents for the blessings they receive each year. But, in some places, the festival is more than just a simple expression of gratitude. One of these festivals is the Kabkaban Festival of Carcar City.
Kabkaban Festival – image source: cebu-bluewaters.com
Carcar City
Carcar City is home to many Spanish and American era structures as well as mouthwatering delicacies like the chicharon, ampao, and lechon. In addition, the city is also known for being a manufacturer of reasonably-priced yet high- quality shoes. Carcar may have been one of the oldest towns in the country, but it is a relative young city since it only attained cityhood in 2007.
Carcar City is home to many Spanish and American era structures as well as mouthwatering delicacies like the chicharon, ampao, and lechon. In addition, the city is also known for being a manufacturer of reasonably-priced yet high- quality shoes. Carcar may have been one of the oldest towns in the country, but it is a relative young city since it only attained cityhood in 2007.
Carcar Delicacies – image source: courtesy of Peter Parcon
Kabkaban Festival
The Kabkaban Festival is celebrated in honor of the patroness of the town, St Catherine of Alexandria. The ritual dances during the festival were once performed to drive away evil spirits and omens. But, this has taken a more positive note these days since it is now focused on attraction tourists into this city in southern Cebu.
The Kabkaban Festival is celebrated in honor of the patroness of the town, St Catherine of Alexandria. The ritual dances during the festival were once performed to drive away evil spirits and omens. But, this has taken a more positive note these days since it is now focused on attraction tourists into this city in southern Cebu.
Kabkaban Festival – image source: cebu-tourism.techcellar.net
The term kabkaban comes from “kabkab,” which is a type of grass that grows in the area. The kabkab was used in the dance rituals to drive away evil spirits. The festival now focuses on providing glimpses of different periods in the history of the city. It also highlights the different products of Carcar City.
Kabkaban Festival – image source: mugstoria.com
Activities during the Kabkaban Festival
One of the highlights of the Kabkaban Festival is the parade and street dancing competition. The theme of the festival changes each year, which is reflected by the costumes of the participants. The participants of the competition represent different sectors of the city. In addition to the parade and street dancing competition, variety shows, games, and an agro fair are normally held during the festival. A beauty pageant is also held as part of the festival.
One of the highlights of the Kabkaban Festival is the parade and street dancing competition. The theme of the festival changes each year, which is reflected by the costumes of the participants. The participants of the competition represent different sectors of the city. In addition to the parade and street dancing competition, variety shows, games, and an agro fair are normally held during the festival. A beauty pageant is also held as part of the festival.
Kabkaban Festival – image source: cebudailynews.inquirer.net
The Kabkaban Festival of Carcar City is celebrated every November 24 and 25 of each year. So, if you find yourself in this southern Heritage City on these dates, you may want to check out the festival and see how Carcaranons celebrate their annual festival.
Have you experienced the Kabkaban Festival already? Tell us about it on the comments section below.
Have you experienced the Kabkaban Festival already? Tell us about it on the comments section below.
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