Higalaay Festival facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Higalaay Festival |
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|---|---|
| Official name | Higalaay Festival |
| Observed by | Cagayan de Oro, Philippines |
| Significance | feast day of St. Augustine, patron saint of the city |
| Observances | carnival parade, higalas parade, fluvial procession |
| Date | August 28 |
| Frequency | annual |
The Higalaay Festival is a super fun yearly celebration in Cagayan de Oro, Philippines. It happens every August 28th. This festival honors St. Augustine, who is the special patron saint of the city. It used to be called the Kagay-an Festival, but now it's known as Higalaay.
What Does Higalaay Mean?
The name "Higalaay Festival" means "Friendship Festival." The word "Higalaay" comes from the Cebuano word "higala," which means "friend." This is perfect because Cagayan de Oro is also known as the "City of Golden Friendship."
A Look Back: Festival History
The first Christian church in Cagayan de Oro was finished on August 28, 1780. This date was special because it was also the feast day of St. Augustine. Since then, people in the city have celebrated August 28 as a special day. Over the years, the city's festival has changed names. It was once called the Kagay-an Festival, and now it is the Higalaay Festival.
Exciting Festival Events
The Higalaay Festival is a big party with many exciting events. These celebrations often start in the first week of August. Here are some of the main highlights you can enjoy:
- Kumbira Culinary Show: This is a huge cooking and food show. It's one of the longest-running culinary events in the Philippines. Chefs and cooks compete in different challenges like making amazing desserts or setting up beautiful buffet tables.
- Cagayan de Oro Carnival Parade: Get ready for a lively street dancing competition! Different groups from around the city join in. They compete to win the title of Best Carnival Parade. Each group also has a Carnival Queen.
- Higalas Parade of Floats and Icons: This parade is a must-see! Thousands of people line the streets to watch. Schools, community groups, and businesses create amazing floats. You'll also see drum and bugle corps and symbols of Cagayan de Oro.
- Fluvial Procession: This is a special parade that happens on the water. Boats are decorated and sail along the river.
- Higalaay Pyrolympics: This event is a spectacular fireworks display. It's usually held at SM City Cagayan de Oro. Many people gather to watch the sky light up with colorful fireworks.
