HAPPINESS IN THE KANNAWIDAN FESTIVAL

            A festival in the Province of Ilocos Sur commemorating the separation of the two Ilocos provinces in 1818. This festival is a showcase of indigenous performances, religious rituals, as well cooking demos featuring the best of Ilocano dishes.

            According from what I searched, Kannawidan Ilocos festival is the commemoration of the foundation of the province of Ilocos Sur. It is a celebration that lasts from the last week of January and ends on the first week of February. It is the Ilocanos’ way of giving thanks to the Almighty not only for the bountiful blessings but also for the rich heritage of the province, including the close family ties among the Ilocanos. This event showcases the deep-rooted religiosity of the Ilocanos. The festival pays more attention on Ilocano children. It is because Ilocano culture are not recognized by the younger generations of the province. But instead, there is more on modern dances. With this kind of endeavor, Ilocano children may appreciate their rich culture and tradition. That is why this Festival is conducted. Also on the opening day of the festival, a traditional ritual is performed by the students of Ilocos Sur. This year, there are different contests that focus to the ability and skills of the students which include traditional tribal rituals, choir, traditional and folk dances. The Kannawidan Ilocos Festival encourages the younger generations to learn the indigenous songs and dances of the province of Ilocos Sur.

                I had gone to this Kannawidan once, My cousins and I watched this so called battle of the bands wherein every band has the chance to perform on stage and compete for the 1st place. For the 1st place the band will get a reward of P75,000 for as 2nd place about P40,000 and for 3rd place P30,000. There are about 14 bands who participated in this event. From my point of view, the band I was interested was 'The Answer' not only they have great music but also great talent, they even sang their own composed song which is called 'Paalam' for their exes whom they got played or never get treated right. Yeah cringe but I love how they sang it, so majestic. Right after watching, we bought some foods which you can found just around the corner.

              I never had this much fun since last year Kannawidan. Furthermore, Kannawidan 2023 Celebration made me realize to enjoy my life in my teenage time coz you never know what might happen in the future, you must have at least enjoyed your life right? In addition, since I only go out once in a while, I never really appreciate much about our culture. Fortunately, I had the guts to at least went to some events and learned more about this Kannawidan which resembles the separation of two Ilocos.