Calumpit Church: Unveiling Timeless Majesty as One of the Oldest Treasures in the Philippines
Calumpit Church or St. John’s Church has been recognized as the oldest church in Bulacan Province and the first site of Augustinian evangelisation in the
Every January 23rd, the town of Guiguinto, Bulacan transforms into a garden paradise as it hosts the much-anticipated Halamanan Festival. This vibrant event, which began in 2001, has grown into a major attraction, drawing visitors from near and far to celebrate the town’s blossoming reputation as the garden capital of the Philippines.
The festival is a tribute to nature’s bounty, showcasing an impressive array of garden flowers and green blessings that the fertile region of Guiguinto has to offer. Its colorful parades, featuring floats adorned with a dazzling assortment of flowers, are a testament to the town’s passion for horticulture and its evolution over the years.
From its inception, the Halamanan Festival has aimed to boost tourism while honoring the community’s love for gardening. The week-long event is a celebration of Guiguinto’s history and its continued dedication to green spaces. Attendees can explore diverse exhibits, enjoy grand floral parades, and take part in educational demonstrations on various aspects of horticulture.
The festival kicks off with bonsai displays and contests, which set the stage for the days ahead. Visitors, including those from nearby cities and Manila, flock to trade fairs where they can purchase affordable home ornaments, vegetables, and decorative items. The festivities begin in the morning with energetic street dancing, where students and young residents from all barangays participate, donning costumes inspired by the natural world.
The highlight of the festival is the grand float parade, a dazzling display of creativity and artistic talent. The floats, often featuring enormous, insect-like creations made from vibrant flowers, capture the imagination of spectators and showcase the remarkable ingenuity of local artists. The parade also features crowned muses from the year’s beauty pageant, adding a touch of glamour to the event.
The Halamanan Festival is not just a celebration of gardening but also a gesture of gratitude to Saint Ildephonsus, the town’s patron saint. It is a joyous occasion that reflects both the historical significance and the thriving love for nature that defines Guiguinto.
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