JC ZozobradoPrime Surfing (and other Events) Destination in the Philippines
When we hear ‘La Union’ most of us right away think ‘Beach’ and ‘Surfing’. With the summer sun rearing its golden head soon, many a longboarder will be flocking up north to catch some waves. But besides surfing, there’s many other reasons that La Union is one of the prime event destinations in the Philippines. Come to any of these towns during their respective festivals and you’re surely be stoked.
Hottest Events Places of La Union
1. San Juan
Given that people come to La Union for the sea and to surf, it’s no wonder that town of San Juan hosts some of the best surfing events in the country. Just recently, a place called Urbiztondo became famous as the setting for the surprise success, ‘I’m Drunk, I Love You’. At the start of the year, it also serves as the event venue for the La Union Longboard Open International Competition. Then, towards the end of October, another surfing event is held here. The La Union Surfing Break Music Wave Carnival is an exciting three-day event that brings surfing, music, sports, and arts to its shores’ visitors. It’s no wonder this place is known for its waves!
2. San Fernando
The capital city has just as much excitement in its own events. The continuous rise in demand for hospitality courses has also led to an increase of related competitions. In the famous Kusina Ilocandia, Region I and the Cordillera Autonomous Region’s Tourism and Hospitality establishments try to outdo each other in a series of contests to promote the best of Ilocano Cuisine.
The highly anticipated Sillag Festival is another one of La Union’s must-see events. This ‘Festival of Lights’ showcases parades and street dancing, and is highlighted by decorated boats representing various agencies, government units, and business firms.
3. Agoo
Gaining fame in the 90s after a local businesswoman claimed to experience Marian apparitions, Agoo is one of La Union’s more religious towns. Although the 90s apparitions were later proven to be a hoax, Agoo is still known for its annual Semana Santa, especially on Good Friday, where beautifully adorned carozas line up the Plaza dela Virgen. This colorful showcase is then contrasted by a file of penitent women dressed in black, honoring the Mater Doloroso.
Then, in early May, more than a hundred families gather in celebration of the local dish, Dinengdeng. Dubbed a FEASTival, the families serve the dish, which is a collection (or showcase) of various Ilocano produce mixed with grilled fish. The event also showcases a fluvial parade and other cultural activities.
4. Bauang
Though not particularly known for its waves, the town of Bauang is also one of La Union’s beach event places. Every year in mid-April, the Rediscover Bauang Summer Beach Festival is held in their shores. The festival features anything under the sun (literally) from sports to pageants, kite flying to Zumba, and even some Bingo!
A similar multicultural event is held towards the turn of the new year. The famous Baggak Festival celebrates the morning star with a showcase of music, dancing, pageantry, and even some activities for the senior citizens!
It’s not that too far up north to miss out on. Don’t let FOMO hit you on the way. Whether it’s for the surfing, the sea, or everything else, La Union’s got something for you. The events are as varied as the vegetables of the Dinengdeng. And if anything, the food is something else.
How do you say ‘yummy’ in Ilocano? Ah yes. Naimas.
