Panagbenga, the Flower Festival
One of the many things we will continue to miss are large festivals and events where people congregate and celebrate. Though this experience may change dramatically everywhere in the world in the years of the pandemic, it’s still important to remember and imagine the bright and lively festivities like the Panagbenga Festival, a month-long celebration of Baguio City’s colorful blooms and culture!
What to expect
The Panagbenga a.k.a. or The Baguio Flower Festival is a month-long celebration that lasts from February to March. Fear of missing out? Not to worry because a number of fun and formal events are spread out in the month. Normally, excited locals and visitors enter the Melvin Jones Grandstand in Burnham Park to watch local performances of dance and live music to kick off the week’s celebrations.
Can’t wait to see all the shows? We’ve got you covered! Start off with the Panagbenga’s main shows which are The Float Parade and The Street Dance Competition — held in the third week of the festival. There are also parades, flower bazaars, landscape competitions, and many other events that you can squeeze into your schedule. Crowds cheering and walking through Session Road and around Burnham Park fill you with energy and the colorful flowers have the spotlight everywhere!
While you’re at it, check out the Session Road in Bloom — a week-long event held in the last week of the festival.
One thing to note when visiting! The main passageway of Baguio City is closed to vehicular traffic during this time to give way to expositions by the food and other hospitality establishments in the city and in the Philippines.
Take this opportunity to enjoy the outdoors as the Session Road becomes an al-fresco dining spot complemented by open-air concerts and performances.
When it’s the Panagbenga Festival in Baguio, you definitely know it! Catchy streamers and glorious flowers are everywhere demanding your attention.
Here’s to wishing we can someday experience this cheerful festival again... Here’s to hoping this celebration of the “season of blooming” that helped lift Baguio’s spirits after the tragic 1990 earthquake can bring hearty smiles to all our faces after the global pandemic.
Where to experience it
Various events are located in different venues, but the grand kick-off is usually held in Melvin Jones Grandstand in Burnham Park alongside the flower bazaars. Check the website and social media pages for updates as festivities and venues change every year!