Tips to Enjoy the Pahiyas Festival
Every year, thousands of people flock to the town of Lucban, Quezon to celebrate one of the country’s most colorful festivals, the annual Pahiyas Festival. While the town has events scheduled for the week, the things that make Pahiyas stand out all happen on the 15th of May.
One of the country’s most colorful festivals should not be missed. But how can you make the most of the one-day event? Photo courtesy of Islands of the Philippines
If this is your first Pahiyas, here are a few tips so you can make the most out of your trip:
When to go
This is more of what time to leave rather than what day you want to leave. Unless you’re taking side trips before and after the festival, it’s best to leave Manila at 3 in the morning, when traffic will be less of a factor.
The parade happens in the afternoon, but it’s best to get to Lucban early to get in a bit of sightseeing as well as get a feel for the parade route. It also means you avoid all the traffic you would encounter had you planned to arrive in Lucban later.
There are several routes to get to Lucban, which is 3-4.5 hours south of Manila. It’s best to head for Calamba, Laguna, where you can then take one of three options: go through Sta. Cruz, San Pablo, or Lucena, Quezon.
Most people take the Lucena route. It’s farther than going through Sta. Cruz or San Pablo, but should be more manageable since less people take that route.
Where to eat
The town will be alive with decorations, music, and lots and lots of food stalls. It’s best to spend time on the streets rather than look for a place to sit down and eat.
A trip to Lucban won’t be complete without sampling Pancit Habhab. Photo courtesy of Kimberly dela Cruz via Inquirer.net
Pancit habhab is a must-try whenever you visit any town in Quezon. You can get one from virtually every street corner during Pahiyas Festival. Lucban is also known for its longganisa, so make sure you have room in your bag (and, preferably your stomach) as it’s a popular pasalubog. Don’t forget, kiping, used to decorate houses, is 100% edible. You’ll find those in almost every stall in town.
If, however, you really want a sit-down meal, head for the first branch of Buddy’s Restaurant, located just a few steps away from the town center.
What to do
Take a walk around town. It’s the best way to experience Pahiyas, especially before the parade. The route is easy enough to follow, since it always starts and ends at Lucban Church. Look for decorated houses: that’s where the parade will pass through.
A visit to Lucban will not be complete without a stop at Kamay ni Hesus Shrine, roughly 4 minutes from town. If you’re not planning on seeing the parade, a quick trip to San Pablo’s Sampaloc Lake is a perfect way to end your day.
Things to bring
Sunblock, hats, and light clothing are just some of the essentials for this trip. It’s still summer, and though Lucban is at a higher elevation than Manila, it would be best to dress light. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so a good pair of shoes is necessary (or better yet, wear sandals!).
The houses will be Instagram-worthy, so make sure you have enough memory for the hundreds, if not thousands, of photos you’ll be taking. It’s also best to bring cash: you’ll spend most of your time eating from food stalls and buying souvenirs from family shops, so credit cards aren’t really an option.
Follow these tips and you’ll surely enjoy your time at this year’s Pahiyas Festival, happening on Sunday, May 15, 2016.
Source: Our Awesome Planet, I Heart PH
