Heritage in Motion

   The Kannawidan Festival is an annual celebration in the province of Ilocos Sur that honors the founding of the place, held from the last week of the month of January to the  first week of Febuary. Its name is derived from the Ilocano term "tawid," with its meaning, heritage, that symbolizes the community's dedication to preserving cultural and traditional practices. The festival not only celebrates the historical founding of the province, but it also serves as a way of giving thanks to the Almighty for the region's bountiful blessings and close-knit relationships among Ilocano people. 

      One of the most significant traditions of the festival is the opening mass at the St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, along with the procession featuring the Patron Saints of the 40 parishes and images of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary. This religious practice showcases the deep-rooted faith that Ilocano people have, with local officials and DepEd representatives often participating in the mass and procession. It continuously serves as a reminder of the spiritual foundation that guides the community through generations.

   The Kannawidan Festival's main focus is to make the younger people engage themselves, encouraging them to appreciate and preserve Ilocano culture and traditions. With the continuous progression of modernization, it is crucial for the to be connected deeply with their cultural roots.  Activities during the festival include traditional rituals, tribal dances, choir competitions, and folk performances, all designed to promote the appreciation of indigenous songs and dances that have long been part of the province’s cultural fabric.

   Beyond having the purpose of preserving cultures and traditions, the festival also provides a platform for showcasing local products, craftsmanship, and agricultural feats through events like the Partuat ken Patanor, an agricultural fair.  The Kannawidan Festival not only strengthens the community’s bond but also promotes tourism, making it an important event for both locals and visitors alike. It is a beautiful reminder of the province's rich past and its commitment to ensuring that its heritage lives on for future generations.

References:

Festivalscape. (n.d.). Kannawidan Ylocos Festival [Webpage]. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://www.festivalscape.com/philippines/ilocos-sur/kannawidan-ylocos/#:~:text=Kannawidan%20Ylocos%20is%20an%20annual,the%20first%20week%20of%20February.

Department of Education Ilocos Sur. (2019, February 7). Kannawidan Ylocos: A cultural celebration of Ilocos Sur [Webpage]. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://depedilocossur.info/?p=2011

Ilocos Sur Provincial Government. (2023, February 12). The Ilocos Sur Kannawidan Festival 2023 Street Dance Competition [Webpage]. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://mis.ilocossur.gov.ph/2023/02/12/the-ilocos-sur-kannawidan-festival-2023-street-dance-competition/

Ai Channel. (2011, February 9). Kannawidan Ylocos Festival: Uppat a tawenen a mangitantandudo kadagiti kultura ken tradision ti Ilocos Sur [Webpage]. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://aichannel.wordpress.com/2011/02/09/kannawidan-ylocos-festival-uppat-a-tawenen-a-mangitantandudo-kadagiti-kultura-ken-tradision-ti-ilocos-sur/

NBOI. (2011, February 9). Kannawidan Festival of Ilocos Sur [Webpage]. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from https://nboi.blogspot.com/2011/02/kannawidan-festival-of-ilocos-sur.html

Raganit, R. (2014, February). It's more fun in Kannawidan during the month of February [Webpage]. Retrieved February 18, 2025, from http://robinraganitpoca.blogspot.com/2014/02/its-more-fun-in-kannawidan-during-month.html