Baguio City Gears Up for the 29th Panagbenga Festival
The much-loved Panagbenga Flower Festival is back, kicking off on February 1, 2024, with exciting new features and participants. This year, the theme is “Blossoms Beyond Boundaries,” emphasizing unity and creativity in the festival.
Who’s Joining the Festivities?
For the first time, participants from Rosario and Pugo in La Union will showcase their talents in the drum and lyre and street dance competitions during the opening parade. At least 13 cultural dance groups, as well as elementary, high school, and college contingents, will also participate, bringing energy and artistry to the streets of Baguio.
Big Prizes for Performers 🎉
The festival is offering generous cash prizes and subsidies to encourage participation:
- Drum & Lyre/Street Dance:
- 1st Place: PHP150,000
- 2nd Place: PHP100,000
- 3rd Place: PHP70,000
- High School & College Dance:
- 1st Place: PHP200,000
- 2nd Place: PHP100,000
- 3rd Place: PHP70,000
Consolation prizes of PHP50,000 will go to other participants to support their efforts.
Flower Floats: A Colorful Highlight
One of the festival’s most awaited events is the flower float parade, set to dazzle on February 22. Participants must use 90% fresh flowers and plants for their floats to ensure quality. The cash prizes have been increased this year:
- Large Float Category:
- 1st Place: PHP600,000
- 2nd Place: PHP400,000
- 3rd Place: PHP300,000
- Medium Float Category:
- 1st Place: PHP350,000
- 2nd Place: PHP250,000
- 3rd Place: PHP150,000
- Small Float Category:
- 1st Place: PHP100,000
- 2nd Place: PHP50,000
- 3rd Place: PHP30,000
To support participants, the festival foundation is providing subsidies for float construction.
More Exciting Events 🌼
The fun doesn’t stop at the parades! The annual Fluvial Parade on Burnham Lake, featuring boats decorated with flowers, will take place on February 27. The festivities will continue with activities throughout February, giving tourists plenty of chances to join in the celebration.
Why Panagbenga Matters
Panagbenga, derived from the Kankanaey word for “blooming,” is one of the Philippines’ biggest tourism events, drawing crowds from around the country. With vibrant performances, stunning floats, and a spirit of community, it’s a festival that celebrates the beauty of both nature and culture.
Mark your calendars and get ready to experience the 29th Panagbenga Festival, where the flowers aren’t the only thing blooming—joy and excitement are too! 🌸🎉
