Ati-Atihan Festival: A Colorful Celebration of Santo Niño in Kalibo, Aklan
The Ati-Atihan Festival is an annual religious and cultural celebration in Kalibo, the capital of Aklan Province in the Philippines. The festival is held in honor of the Santo Niño, the Infant Jesus, and is celebrated in several towns of the province of Aklan, particularly in Kalibo. The festival is believed to be around 800 years old and is considered the mother of all Philippine festivals.
The Ati-Atihan Festival is a week-long celebration that usually takes place in the third week of January. The festival is a fusion of religious and cultural elements, with participants donning colorful costumes and dancing to the beat of drums and other percussion instruments. The festival is also known for its street parties and food stalls that offer a wide variety of local delicacies.
The Ati-Atihan Festival is a significant event in the Philippines, attracting local and foreign tourists. The festival showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage and highlights the Filipinos’ strong devotion to their faith. The festival also allows the locals to unite and celebrate their shared identity and traditions.
Historical Background
Origin and Evolution
According to accepted origin stories, in the 13th century, a group of 10 Malay chieftains called Datus, fleeing from Borneo, settled in the Philippines and were granted settlement by the Ati people, the tribes of Panay Island. The festival’s name means “to be like the Ati’s” (also called Aetas), and it is said to have evolved from the original celebration to incorporate indigenous dance, music, and costumes. The Ati or Aetas were the aboriginal native inhabitants of Panay before the coming of the Malays and the Spaniards.
When the Spaniards arrived, the festival evolved, becoming a Fiesta de Santo Niño. It was part of the Catholic “fiesta system” employed by the Spanish colonial government to reinforce the reducciones policy to resettle natives in planned settlements built around a local church.
Revelers wear body paints, including blackening the face with soot, and elaborate tribal costumes to achieve an appearance that looks like an Ati. The Ati-Atihan festival is also known as the “Mother of all Philippine Festivals” because it is the oldest festival in the Philippines and is considered the most colorful and lively.
To this day, the festival is still participated by Ati or Aetas, who started it all. The festival features street parties, colorful costumes, dancing, and live music. Participants wear elaborate and colorful costumes made of feathers and beads.
Influence of Spanish Colonial Rule
The Ati-Atihan Festival evolved over time and was heavily influenced by Spanish colonial rule in the Philippines. The Spaniards introduced Christianity to the Philippines in the 16th century, and the Ati-Atihan Festival became a way to celebrate the arrival of Christianity. The festival is now celebrated in honor of the Santo Niño (Holy Child or Infant Jesus).
During the Spanish colonial period, the Ati-Atihan Festival was also used to control the indigenous population. The Spanish authorities encouraged the festival but also used it to promote their own agenda. The Spanish authorities used the festival to teach the indigenous people about Christianity and to promote Spanish culture and traditions.
Significance and Symbolism
The Ati-Atihan Festival has a rich history and is deeply rooted in the indigenous culture of the Aetas, the original inhabitants of the island of Panay.
The festival’s name means “to be like the Ati’s” and celebrates the Aeta’s way of life, culture, and traditions. The festival symbolizes unity and harmony between the Aetas and the Malay people who later inhabited the island. The festival’s origins can be traced back to the 13th century when Malay settlers arrived on the island and were welcomed by the Aetas.
The Ati-Atihan Festival is also a symbol of devotion and protection. The Aetas believed that the Santo Niño was a powerful protector, and the festival was a way to honor and celebrate his power. The festival is characterized by colorful costumes, lively music, and dance performances, which are all meant to express the Aeta’s joy and gratitude to the Santo Niño.
The festival is also significant to Catholics, who believe in the power of the Santo Niño to grant miracles and blessings. The festival is a time of prayer, reflection, and thanksgiving, and many devotees come to the festival to offer their prayers and seek the Santo Niño’s intercession.
Festival Activities
The Ati-Atihan Festival is known for its street dancing and parade, religious processions, and dance competition.
Street Dancing and Parade
The Ati-Atihan Festival is famous for its street dancing and parade. The street dancing is a colorful and lively performance that involves dancers wearing elaborate costumes and masks. The parade is a procession of people marching through the streets to the beat of drums and other musical instruments. The parade is usually led by the image of the Santo Niño.
Religious Processions
The Ati-Atihan Festival is also a religious event that includes processions. The processions are a way to honor the Santo Niño and to ask for blessings. The processions are usually led by the local priest and the image of the Santo Niño. The participants carry candles, flowers, and other offerings while walking through the streets.
Dance Competition
The Ati-Atihan Festival also includes a dance competition. The competition is a way to showcase the best dancers and performers in the region. The competition is usually held in an ample open space where the dancers can perform their routines. The winners of the competition receive prizes and recognition for their winning performance.
Music and Art
Ati-Atihan Festival is a religious celebration and a cultural event that showcases the artistry and musicality of the locals. The festival features various traditional music and dance performances, accompanied by the rhythmic beat of drums.
Music plays a vital role in the Ati-Atihan Festival, and it is an essential component of the celebration. The festival’s music is a fusion of indigenous and modern sounds, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines. The music is characterized by using percussion instruments such as drums, gongs, and tambourines.
The drums are the most important musical instrument in the Ati-Atihan Festival. They are played by skilled musicians who create complex rhythms and beats accompanying the dancers’ movements. The drummers wear colorful costumes and headdresses, adding to the festival’s vibrant atmosphere.
In addition to music, art is also an integral part of the Ati-Atihan Festival. The festival features various art exhibits and competitions, showcasing the creativity and talent of the locals. The art exhibits include paintings, sculptures, and handicrafts that reflect the festival’s themes and traditions.
The festival also features street performances, where artists showcase their talents in various art forms, such as painting, dancing, and singing. The street performances are a popular attraction for tourists, who witness the Philippines’ artistic and cultural richness.
Festival Costumes
One of the most striking features of the Ati-Atihan Festival is the colorful costumes worn by the participants. These costumes are an essential part of the festival and are designed to represent the different tribes and groups that make up the Philippines.
The costumes worn during the Ati-Atihan Festival are made of various materials, including feathers, shells, and beads. They are often brightly colored and feature intricate designs representing Filipino culture.
Many of the costumes worn during the Ati-Atihan Festival are inspired by the traditional dress of the Aeta, the indigenous people of the Philippines. These costumes often feature bold patterns and bright colors and are designed to be functional and beautiful.
In addition to the traditional costumes, many participants in the Ati-Atihan Festival also wear modern costumes designed to be eye-catching and fun. These costumes often feature bright colors and bold designs and are meant to celebrate the festival’s vibrant and lively atmosphere.
Travel Information
Accommodation
During the Ati-Atihan Festival, it is recommended to book accommodation in advance as it is a peak season for tourism. The festival is celebrated on the third Sunday of January every year in Kalibo, Aklan. Kalibo has a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Some popular options include:
- La Esperanza Hotel – a budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Kalibo, just a few minutes walk from Pastrana Park, where most festival activities occur.
- Ati-Atihan Festival Hostel – a budget-friendly hostel located near Magsaysay Park, a popular spot for festival activities.
Transportation
Flights to Kalibo
The nearest airport to Kalibo is the Kalibo International Airport, serviced by several airlines, including Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia. During the festival season, flights to Kalibo can be pretty expensive, so it is recommended to book in advance.
Alternatively, visitors can fly to the Godofredo P. Ramos Airport in Caticlan, located on the nearby island of Panay. From there, visitors can take a bus or van to Kalibo, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Getting around Kalibo
During the festival season, the streets of Kalibo can be pretty congested, so it is recommended to use public transportation to get around. Tricycles and jeepneys are the most common modes of transportation in Kalibo and are relatively cheap.
Getting to other destinations
Visitors can also use Kalibo as a base to explore other destinations in the Philippines. Manila and Cebu are popular destinations and can be reached by plane from Kalibo International Airport. Boracay is also a popular destination and can be reached by ferry from Caticlan.
Shopping and Souvenirs
The Ati-Atihan Festival is a celebration of culture and religion and an excellent opportunity to shop and take home some souvenirs. Visitors can find various items reflecting local culture and traditions, from handmade crafts to traditional clothing.
One of the best places to shop during the festival is at the bazaars and trade fairs. The Kalibo Plaza Trade Hall is a popular spot where vendors sell locally-made products from Kalibo. Visitors can find various items, such as handwoven baskets, wooden carvings, and embroidered fabrics. The fair also has a food section where visitors can sample local delicacies.
Another popular spot for shopping is Pastrana Park and Magsaysay Park, where food festivals are held during the entire week of Ati-Atihan. Visitors can find a variety of food stalls selling local delicacies such as grilled seafood, roasted pork, and sweet desserts.
For those looking to take home some traditional clothing, the festival is an excellent opportunity to buy Ati-Atihan costumes. The participants wear these costumes during the parade, and are made of colorful fabrics and intricate beadwork. Visitors can also find other traditional clothing, such as barongs and Filipinianas.
Safety Tips
The Ati-Atihan Festival is a week-long celebration that draws many tourists and locals alike. It is important to take certain precautions to ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
Protect Yourself
- Wear comfortable clothing and footwear that will allow for easy movement and won’t cause blisters or other injuries.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
- Apply sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
- Keep your valuables, such as your phone and wallet, secure. Consider using a money belt or a cross-body bag that is difficult to snatch. The locals of Kalibo are honest people, but people from various places and provinces visit Kalibo during the festival week. Just be careful. Pickpocket happens everywhere, even in the safest cities in the world.
Stay Safe in Crowds
- Be mindful of your personal space and avoid getting too close to strangers.
- Stay alert and be aware of any suspicious behavior or activity.
- Trust your instincts and move away from the situation if you feel uncomfortable or threatened.
- Stay with your group and establish a meeting point if you get separated.
Respect Local Customs
- Be respectful of the local culture and customs, especially during religious ceremonies.
- Avoid taking photos or videos of people without their permission.
- Do not touch or disturb any religious artifacts or symbols.
- Be mindful of your behavior and avoid causing any disruptions or disturbances.
By following these safety tips, you can help ensure that your experience at the Ati-Atihan Festival is safe and enjoyable. Remember to always be aware of your surroundings and to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Ati-Atihan Festival first begin?
The Ati-Atihan Festival is believed to be around 800 years old and was celebrated by the Aetas of Panay and the newly settled Malays from Borneo long before there was an archipelagic Philippines to speak of. The festival later became associated with the Santo Niño, the child Jesus, and is now celebrated annually in January in several towns of the province of Aklan, Panay Island.
What is the cultural background of the Ati-Atihan Festival?
The Ati-Atihan Festival celebrates the Ati people, the indigenous inhabitants of the island, and their cultural traditions and way of life. The Ati people were the first inhabitants of the island and are believed to have migrated from Borneo over 30,000 years ago. The festival is a celebration of their resilience, their history, and their unique cultural identity.
What are the activities involved in the Ati-Atihan Festival?
The Ati-Atihan Festival is a colorful and lively celebration that involves music, dance, and street parties. People dress up in colorful costumes and paint their faces black to mimic the appearance of the Ati people. They dance and sing on the streets while carrying images of the Santo Niño. The festival also includes a parade, a beauty contest, and a grand fireworks display.
What is the significance of shouting in the Ati-Atihan Festival?
Shouting is an integral part of the Ati-Atihan Festival. It is believed that shouting and making noise wards off evil spirits and brings good luck. During the festival, people shout “Viva kay Señor Santo Niño!” which means “Long live the Holy Child Jesus!” The shouting is accompanied by the beating of drums, the blowing of horns, and the playing of other musical instruments.
What are the characteristics of the Ati-Atihan Festival?
The Ati-Atihan Festival is characterized by its vibrant colors, lively music, and energetic dancing. It is also known for its joyful and festive atmosphere, which attracts visitors from all over the world. The festival is a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of the Ati people and their enduring spirit of resilience and joy.
When and where is the Ati-Atihan Festival celebrated?
The Ati-Atihan Festival is celebrated annually in January in several towns of the province of Aklan, Panay Island. The festival is most closely associated with the town of Kalibo, which is considered the capital of the Ati-Atihan Festival. The festival is a major event in the Philippines and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world.
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