Kannawidan: The Ylocos Festival

The province of Ilocos Sur has recently celebrated its Kannawidan Ylocos Festival. This year marks the province’s 194th year based on the Royal Decree dated February 2, 1818 separating Ilocos Sur from Ilocos Norte. Prior to this date, the stretch of Bangui in Ilocos Norte down to Luna La Union is called Ylocos which is a term to refer to the coastal inhabitants. It literally meant “from the lowlands”.

Kannawidan is a week long fiesta celebrated at the heart of Ilocandia, Vigan City. Here different products of the different towns of Ilocos are shown and sold. Not only for monetary reasons, these products such as vegetables, other food and handicrafts are showcased to give knowledge about the different products that can be found in Ilocandia. In a way, Kannawidan is a festival that showcases the best of Ilocano craftsmanship and creativity. Not only that, Kannawidan festival hosts some events such as Siglat Ylocandia and other shows and contests for students and adults alike.