photo by susancorpuz90

If Pasadena has the Rose Parade, Philippines has the Panagbenga Festival. Held every February, Baguio hosts a floral festival that is unique in this tropical country. This northern city in Luzon is dubbed as the “Summer Capital of the Philippines” with its chilly climate with fresh scent from pine trees. Those in the metro find solace in Baguio when summer heat and humidity are too much to bear.

The festival’s name is a word from one of the region’s indigenous tribes which means “season of blooming”. First held in 1995, this festival was first observed to lift the spirit of the locals from the tragic earthquake that hit the city a few years before. Now, this festival aims to boost the local tourism of the city with February, a nice time to kick-off the influx of tourists to experience Baguio’s unique charm and cool temperature.

photo by susancorpuz90

For Penagbenga 2012, it will be from February 1 till March 4 – more than a week of festivities and wonderful activities. Concerts, trade fairs, bazaars, street dancing and the much-awaited  float parade are just one of the this festival’s highlights. Opening this month-long celebration is a parade with petals showered on the streets. A fluvial parade is also scheduled on February 12 while the Grand Float Parade and the Grand Street Dancing Parade will be held on February 25 and 26. Green scenery will be poured with a wide array and assorted of lively hues from flowers with the dancing beat from local instruments.

Aside from showcasing the bounties of Baguio and its neighboring towns through flowers, the Panagbenga Festival also supports other produce of the region from sweet yam to strawberries. Local customs and traditions will be appreciated by the youth and non-locals.

Kick off your summer getaway with a trip to Baguio and experience the Panagbenga Festival. To get to Baguio, there are many buses and transportation that will take you from Manila. Travel time is at least 8 hours. Another route is to fly to Laoag from Manila ( 1 hour) and then take a bus to Baguio ( at least 2 hours). In terms of facilities like lodging and dining, Baguio is a modern-day destination to cater to all types of travelers.