The Ati-Atihan Festival is one of the Philippines’ most iconic and enduring celebrations, held annually in Kalibo, Aklan. Known as the “Mother of All Philippine Festivals,” it captivates visitors with its vibrant street parades, rhythmic drumbeats, and elaborate tribal costumes that emulate the indigenous Ati people. Each January, this week-long festival combines traditional Filipino customs with Catholic rituals dedicated to the Santo Niño (Holy Child Jesus).
This fusion of indigenous culture and religious devotion makes the Ati-Atihan Festival unique, drawing thousands of participants who gather to honor Filipino heritage and community spirit. The festival’s lively energy and deep-rooted cultural significance have made it a highlight for both locals and tourists, capturing the essence of Filipino identity.
IMAGE SOURCE: Kalibo Ati-atihan Festival 2025
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Ati-Atihan Festival: Place of Origin and History
The place of origin for the Ati-Atihan Festival is Kalibo, Aklan on the island of Panay, where it began as a tribute to the Ati people, the island’s earliest inhabitants. According to legend, in the 13th century, Malay settlers arrived in Panay and sought the Ati’s help during a time of crisis. In gratitude, the Malays adopted the Ati-Atihan (“to be like the Ati”) customs by painting their faces with soot and joining in song and dance, symbolizing their respect and unity with the Ati. Over time, this cultural gathering evolved with the introduction of Christian elements during Spanish colonization, adding the Santo Niño as a central figure of reverence and bringing a new spiritual layer to the celebration.
Today, the Ati-Atihan Festival history remains central to its appeal, as the festival’s cultural and spiritual roots draw locals and tourists alike. Participants paint their faces and wear intricate costumes to honor the Ati people, symbolizing the resilience and unity that the festival embodies. Recognized by UNESCO as an important piece of Filipino intangible cultural heritage, the Ati-Atihan Festival bridges indigenous and Catholic practices in a powerful, communal celebration of Filipino
Ati-Atihan Festival 2025: Key Dates and Schedule of Events
The Ati-Atihan Festival 2025 is set to take place in Kalibo, Aklan, with the primary festivities spanning the week leading up to Sunday, January 19, 2025. Known for its mix of vibrant cultural displays and religious devotion, this annual festival honors the Santo Niño (Holy Child Jesus) and highlights the legacy of the indigenous Ati people. The most anticipated events feature grand parades, lively street dancing, and tribal competitions, each accompanied by traditional drumbeats and festive chanting that immerse participants in the joyous atmosphere. Visit Ati-Atihan Festival Official Website for more information.
Ati-Atihan Festival 2025 Schedule of Events:
Opening Days (Mid-January 2025): The festival begins with an opening Mass, followed by preliminary parades and local gatherings. Daily parades and smaller performances fill the early days, allowing visitors to explore local crafts and enjoy Kalibo’s street food.
Ati-Atihan Street Dancing (January 17-19): Known as the “Sadsad,” the Ati-Atihan street dancing features groups dressed in elaborate costumes, moving rhythmically to drumbeats in honor of the Santo Niño. This high-energy event is one of the highlights of the festival, with locals and tourists joining the joyful parade through the streets.
Grand Parade and Tribal Competitions (January 18): The Kalibo Sadsad Ati-Atihan contest on January 18, 2025 will showcase tribal performances with groups competing in categories like Tribal Big, Tribal Small, and Balik Ati. Contingents from Kalibo and neighboring towns will present elaborate routines, vying for titles and celebrating Ati heritage with vibrant costumes.
Culmination of Events (January 19, 2025): The festival reaches its peak on January 19, with a grand procession dedicated to the Santo Niño. This includes a religious Mass, blessing ceremonies, and a final parade that blends Catholic and indigenous elements in a powerful show of unity and cultural pride.
This year’s Ati-Atihan Festival schedule promises a spectacular lineup, perfect for experiencing the rich cultural and spiritual essence that makes Ati-Atihan a cherished Philippine tradition.
Essential Guide to the Ati-Atihan Festival: Costume, Parades, and Best Activities
The Ati-Atihan Festival costume is one of the most recognizable aspects of this vibrant celebration, where participants don elaborate, colorful attire adorned with feathers, beads, and tribal motifs. Many attendees use black face paint, symbolizing the Ati people, the festival’s namesake and a local indigenous group. These costumes and body paints transform the streets of Kalibo into a sea of vibrant expressions, bringing to life the cultural and historical significance of the festival.
Ati-Atihan Festival Parade and Street Dancing are central events, known collectively as “Sadsad.” Throughout the week, visitors can see energetic processions where performers and participants alike dance to rhythmic drumbeats. The parades crescendo on the final weekend, with various groups competing in elaborate street dancing displays to honor the Santo Niño and celebrate local heritage. The grand parade, which typically takes place on the last Saturday of the festival, showcases not only traditional dances but also modern choreography, creating a captivating blend of old and new.
Best Activities in Ati-Atihan Festival include joining the street dancing, savoring local dishes, and browsing through arts and crafts stalls. The festival’s culinary offerings, like bibingka (rice cake) and lechon (roast pig), provide a taste of Aklan’s local flavors, while the bustling markets are perfect for exploring handmade crafts and traditional clothing. For a truly immersive experience, visitors can participate in the religious ceremonies at the Kalibo Cathedral, where locals gather to honor the Santo Niño, adding a profound layer of devotion to the festive atmosphere.
This combination of cultural displays, lively parades, and community activities makes the Ati-Atihan Festival a must-see event, offering a unique and unforgettable insight into Filipino heritage.
Planning Your Visit: How to Get to the Ati-Atihan Festival
To reach Kalibo, Aklan for the Ati-Atihan Festival in 2025, here are the main travel options, costs, and tips to help you plan your journey:
1. By Air
The fastest way to reach Kalibo is by flying into Kalibo International Airport (KLO), with flights available from major cities like Manila and Cebu. Flights typically take around 1 hour from Manila, and prices vary widely depending on how early you book. A round-trip ticket from Manila usually ranges from PHP 2,500 to PHP 5,000 ($45–$90), but booking early can help secure the best deals due to high demand during the festival season. Airlines like Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and AirAsia offer frequent flights.
2. Alternative Route via Caticlan
If flights to Kalibo are fully booked, another option is to fly into Caticlan Airport near Boracay, which is about a 1.5-hour drive from Kalibo. From Caticlan, you can take a van or bus to Kalibo for around PHP 200 ($3.50) per person. This route offers a scenic view of Aklan’s coastline, adding to the travel experience.
3. By Sea
For a more scenic yet longer journey, you can take a ferry from Manila to Caticlan Jetty Port. The sea trip takes approximately 12–17 hours, with fares ranging from PHP 1,500 to PHP 2,500 ($27–$45). Once in Caticlan, you’ll need to take a van or bus to Kalibo, as mentioned above.
4. Local Transport within Kalibo
Once in Kalibo, tricycles are the main mode of local transportation and are affordable and accessible for short distances, including to festival spots like Magsaysay Park and Kalibo Cathedral. Fares generally range from PHP 20 to PHP 50 per trip ($0.35–$0.90). If you prefer a more private option, taxis or car rentals are available, but advance booking is recommended during peak festival days.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
- Book Early: Both flights and accommodations are in high demand during Ati-Atihan, so booking several months in advance is advisable.
- Prepare for Crowds: The festival attracts thousands, so arriving a few days early allows for better accommodations and a chance to explore Kalibo.
- Cash for Local Transport: While some taxis may accept cashless payments, tricycles and small vendors usually require cash, so have small denominations on hand.
This variety of travel options ensures a smooth journey to Kalibo and sets you up for an unforgettable experience at the Ati-Atihan Festival.
What to Wear to the Ati-Atihan Festival
For those planning to attend the Ati-Atihan Festival, choosing the right attire is essential to enjoy the festivities comfortably. Here are some practical tips on what to wear to the Ati-Atihan Festival, ensuring both comfort and style that matches the vibrant energy of Kalibo’s streets.
1. Opt for Comfortable, Breathable Clothing
Since the Ati-Atihan Festival is held outdoors with activities stretching over several hours, it’s crucial to wear light, breathable fabrics. Loose-fitting clothes made from cotton or linen work well, keeping you cool amid the crowds and sun. Avoid heavy or dark-colored clothing, as Kalibo can get quite warm in January, especially with high-energy events like the street dancing parades.
2. Wear Comfortable Footwear
Expect plenty of walking and dancing, so supportive, comfortable footwear is a must. Lightweight sneakers or sandals with good grip and support are ideal for navigating Kalibo’s streets. Avoid heels or flip-flops, as they can be uncomfortable and challenging to walk in for long periods on potentially crowded or uneven surfaces.
3. Add Accessories Wisely
To protect against the sun, bring sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, or a cap. A small backpack or crossbody bag is also useful to carry essentials like water, sunscreen, and a camera while keeping your hands free for dancing! A rain poncho is another good idea, as January can sometimes bring unexpected rain in Aklan.
4. Consider Festival Colors and Face Paint
Join in the spirit by wearing brightly colored clothes or bringing accessories in vibrant colors to reflect the festive atmosphere. Many attendees use soot or face paint to emulate the Ati people, but if you want to add a splash of color, feel free to incorporate face paint or washable designs that fit the festival’s traditional aesthetic.
By dressing in comfortable yet festive attire, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the Ati-Atihan Festival and enjoy the vibrant parades, music, and culture that make this event so unique.
Essential Tips for Attending the Ati-Atihan Festival
Here are essential tips for attending the Ati-Atihan Festival to make the most of this vibrant event in Kalibo:
1. Arrive Early
The Ati-Atihan Festival draws large crowds, so early arrival is key. Aim to arrive at least a day or two before the peak weekend events. This gives you time to settle, explore local areas, and secure good spots for key activities like the street dancing parades and the grand religious procession.
2. Stay Comfortable and Hydrated
Kalibo’s festival atmosphere can be lively and intense, so dress in comfortable, breathable clothes and sturdy shoes that can handle long hours on your feet. The warm, tropical weather means staying hydrated is essential; bring a refillable water bottle, as there may be limited availability nearby due to the crowds.
3. Mind Your Valuables
With thousands attending, secure your valuables to avoid misplacing them or attracting potential pickpockets. Carry a small crossbody bag or a secure backpack, and keep phones, wallets, and cameras close. While the festival is generally safe, staying cautious in the large, dynamic crowds is wise.
4. Engage Respectfully with Locals and Performers
The Ati-Atihan Festival holds deep cultural and religious significance, honoring the Santo Niño and local heritage. If you’re taking photos, especially of locals in traditional costumes, always ask for permission first. Joining in the dances is encouraged, but be mindful and respectful of cultural customs and religious symbols.
5. Plan for Flexibility in Your Schedule
Events like the Sadsad street dancing or the parade don’t always follow precise schedules, so prepare to adapt. Check out the festival schedule in advance, but be ready for timing variations and embrace the spontaneous, joyful energy that defines Ati-Atihan.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy the Ati-Atihan Festival to its fullest while respecting the local customs that make this celebration so unique.
Ati-Atihan Festival FAQs
1. Where is the best place to stay?
Kalibo offers a range of accommodation options during the Ati-Atihan Festival, from budget-friendly inns to higher-end hotels. Since Kalibo gets crowded during the festival, it’s best to book early. Options such as La Esperanza Hotel and RB Lodge are popular choices for those wanting proximity to the main event sites. Alternatively, nearby Caticlan and even Boracay (just a boat ride away) offer additional accommodation options, especially if Kalibo becomes fully booked.
2. Is there an entry fee for the Ati-Atihan Festival?
The festival itself does not have an entry fee, allowing everyone to join the public celebrations, street dancing, and parades. However, if you wish to attend specific events or competitions that may have ticketed entry, it’s best to check in advance.
3. Is the festival family-friendly?
Yes, the Ati-Atihan Festival is family-friendly, with activities and parades that appeal to all ages. Families can enjoy the lively cultural performances, music, and processions, though it is recommended to attend during the day when it’s less crowded and the atmosphere is more relaxed.
4. Where are the best spots to view the parade?
The Kalibo Cathedral is a central spot for religious processions and one of the best viewing points for the grand Santo Niño procession. Magsaysay Park and Pastrana Park are also popular gathering spots, where you can view the parade and the “Hala Bira” street dancers up close. These locations provide an ideal vantage point to enjoy the energy of the festivities.
5. What makes Ati-Atihan unique?
Ati-Atihan is known as the “Mother of All Philippine Festivals” because it uniquely blends indigenous traditions and Catholic devotion. Celebrants paint their faces black in homage to the indigenous Ati people, and the music, drumbeats, and colorful costumes create an infectious atmosphere. The festival also allows anyone to join the dancing in the streets, making it one of the most inclusive and immersive cultural celebrations in the Philippines.
Conclusion: Why Attend the Ati-Atihan Festival in 2025?
Attending the Ati-Atihan Festival in 2025 promises an unforgettable cultural experience that celebrates Filipino heritage, unity, and vibrant faith. The combination of historical parades, spirited street dancing, and deeply rooted traditions honoring the Santo Niño creates a sensory-rich festival that draws visitors worldwide. For travelers looking to connect with Filipino culture, explore local traditions, and join in an unparalleled atmosphere of joy and community, the Ati-Atihan Festival is a must-see event.
