This Week’s Festivals: Feb. 4-10, 2018

Feb. 3 to 9

Kali-Kalihan Festival

Residents of Don Salvador Benedicto town in Negros Occidental province, showcase in a dance parade the art of “kali,” also known as “arnis,” which was widely practiced among the natives before the Spanish era. Cultural presentations and beauty pageants are also held in the festival.

Feb. 5 to 10

Paraw Regatta

The boat-sailing festival is known for the colorful “paraw” and the 36.5-kilometer sailing competition along Iloilo Strait between Iloilo City and Guimaras Island. The paraw are small and slim double outrigger boats made of indigenous materials traditionally used by Ilonggos for transportation and fishing. This year’s festival theme is “Unity amid the waves of change.”

Feb. 8 to 11

Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta

The annual aviation show in Clark, Pampanga province, is in its 22nd run this year. The event aims to educate guests and tourists about the aviation industry. Among the activities are paragliding, search and rescue flight demonstrations and skydiving.

—Compiled by Kathleen de Villa, Inquirer Research

Sources: Inquirer Archives, DOT, cityofsanfernando.gov.ph, northernsamar.gov.ph, negros-occ.gov.ph, philballoonfest.net