The Town Fiesta

In many Philippine towns, the fiesta is the biggest event of the year. It is usually held in honor of the town's patron saint. Preparations begin weeks ahead. Streets are decorated with colorful banderitas, and families clean and repaint their homes. On the day itself, a Mass is celebrated in the morning, followed by a procession in which the image of the saint is carried through the streets. Homes are opened to relatives, friends and even strangers, who are welcomed with plates of lechon, pancit and desserts. In the evening, there may be a parade, a beauty contest or a street dance. Although fiestas are joyful, some critics point out that families sometimes spend beyond their means to feed their guests. Others defend the tradition, saying it strengthens ties within the community and keeps cultural practices alive.