Blog post1Q4

 Highlights of the festival include colorful street parades featuring dancers in intricate woven costumes adorned with farm produce like rice stalks, garlic, and tobacco—staples of Ilocos Sur’s economy. Traditional folk dances such as the Binatbatan (a cloth-weaving dance) and Sakuting (a stick dance) are performed by local groups, while food stalls offer authentic Ilocano dishes like pinakbet, bagnet, and poqui-poqui.

Beyond entertainment, the festival serves as a platform to promote sustainable farming practices and support local artisans. Workshops on handloom weaving, pottery making, and organic farming are open to the public, allowing attendees to learn about age-old traditions passed down through generations. Community activities like harvest thanksgiving rituals also strengthen bonds among families and neighborhoods.

This year’s celebration is set to feature new additions, including a photography exhibit showcasing Ilocos Sur’s natural landscapes and cultural sites, and a youth talent competition focused on preserving traditional arts. Local officials emphasize that the festival is not just a showcase of the past, but a celebration of how Ilocano culture continues to thrive in modern times.

 

Reference/Source: Ilocos Sur Provincial Tourism Office. (2026). Intayon Ilocos Sur