Pahiyas (Lucban, Quezon).

It was undoubtedly one of the most colorful festivals I've seen. The Pahiyas Festival in Lucban, Quezon is celebated in honor of the Patron Saint of Farmers, San Isidro Labrador, on May 15 each year. Families decorate their houses with fruits, vegetables and colorful kiping (rice wafers) which could be eaten after the festival, fried or grilled.

Things to do and try during the Festival.

It is best to walk around the town during the festival, and get amazed with creativity breathing at each house. People are quite hospitable, too, they'd let you into their homes so you could peek through their windows and have your pictures taken.

Try pancit habhab. It is usually placed on banana leaves and are eaten without utensils. *grin*

Visit the Lucban church, and if you like, join the procession.

Take lots of pictures of floats. Like the houses, they are beautifully-adorned, too.

Make friends with townfolks and locals. They have lots of stories to tell.

Dip grilled or fried kipping in vinegar. Yum!

Visit Kamay ni Hesus Healing Center. Hear Mass there.

Lastly, bring home some lucban longganisa. It's delicious!

Getting There

Lucban is about three and a half hours from Metro Manila. You can pass through the Pagsanjan route. It is scenic and charming, nestled in the foot of Mt. Banahaw, and absolutely worth the trip.

Accomodations

It is best to stay with relatives (that is, if you have one) when attending the Pahiyas Festival. Hotels and Inns are usually full during this time. In fact, hotels require one year advance booking!

Patio Rizal (located at the center of town): for reservations, call them at 042 540 2107.
Lucban Summer Capital Inn (located adjacent to the church): for reservations, call them at 042 540 4486.

Don't forget: There are ATMs and banks in Lucban. Still, bring enough cash. And although Lucban is a safe place, there will be a lot of tourists during the festival, so be careful with your personal belongings. Keep hydrating. Take lots of pictures!