Isaiah: Kannawidan Festival: What It's Used To Be

Ilocos Sur is a beautiful province located in the northern part of Luzon. It is a province rich in culture that represents the ancient Spanish and Filipino heritage. To show and share their treasures to the whole world, the locals conceived a festival that highlights these cultural traditions and they called it the “Kannadiwan Festival”.

It is a celebration that lasts from the last week of January up to the first week of February. Included in the course of events is the commemoration of the foundation day of the province.

On the opening day, there is usually a mass held at the St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral. It is followed by a procession of the Patron Saints of the 40 parishes and images of Jesus Christ and Virgin Mary around the city. 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 city, including the close family ties among the Ilocanos. This event showcases the deep-rooted religiosity of the townsfolk.

However, this year's Kannawidan Festival won't be the same as it's used to be. People around the Philippines especially Ilocos Sur come to watch and witness the parades that a lot of people watches near it and the concerts that makes you jump non-stop. They buy lots of food from various food stalls and stores around the area. Visits galleries and exhibitions that catches their eyes. Buys accessories to give to their friends, love ones and also for their selves. Then goes to the carnival to make their souls jump outta their body.

It really was fun and all not until the covid-19 disease spread like crazy. Making us at risk if ever we want to go there so bad. Now, all those precious memories are all in the past. We understand that the government is protecting us. It's just that there won't be big things to look forward to every mid January now, but let's just hope and pray that things will be normal soon for us to live our lives to the fullest.