The Panagbenga kicks off on February 1, with the Grand Opening Day Parade, signaling a month of activities that include cultural showcases, vibrant parades, landscaping competitions, and much more
BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – If you’re planning to watch this year’s Panagbenga Festival, better clear your calendar and get ready to join the fun.
With its theme “Blossoms Beyond Boundaries,” the 29th Baguio Flower Festival promises a celebration of creativity, culture, and community that stretches beyond tradition.
The Panagbenga kicks off on February 1, with the Grand Opening Day Parade, signaling a month of activities that include cultural showcases, vibrant parades, landscaping competitions, and much more.
Here’s a quick rundown of the key dates to remember:
- February 1: Grand Opening Day Parade
- February 22-23: Grand Street Dance Parade and Grand Floral Float Parade
- February 24-March 2: Session Road in Bloom
- March 2: Grand Aerial Fireworks Display and Closing Ceremony
Whether it’s cheering for university dancers as the College Category makes its return in the street dance competition or marveling at the floats in the Grand Floral Float Parade, there’s something for everyone.
Panagbenga, which means “a season of blooming” in Kankanaey, was first held in 1995 to help Baguio rise from the devastation of the 1990 Luzon earthquake.
What started as a modest flower festival has since become the city’s signature event, showcasing the artistry and culture of the Cordillera region while drawing tourists from across the Philippines and beyond.
Freddie Alquiroz, president of the Baguio Flower Festival Foundation, Inc. (BFFFI), shared his excitement about this year’s celebration during the official launch on January 6.
“Panagbenga is not just a celebration; it is a testament to Baguio’s spirit, resilience, and ability to inspire. It’s about pushing boundaries — artistic, cultural, and personal.”
The festival reflects this spirit with its array of activities, including the Small Float Category, introduced just last year, which will return alongside the Medium and Large Float categories with bigger prizes this time around.
The theme “Blossoms Beyond Boundaries” encapsulates not only the beauty of Baguio’s flowers but also the city’s determination to grow and thrive. Whether it’s through cultural performances, local crafts, or creative floats, the festival reminds us that growth is a shared journey.
The excitement doesn’t stop with this year’s festivities.
Alquiroz revealed plans for the 30th Panagbenga celebration in 2026, which will include a commemorative coffee table book documenting the festival’s rich history and milestones.
So, when the Panagbenga hymn plays again — rising above the chatter of locals and tourists, accompanied by the rhythmic beating of drums — you’ll know Baguio is in full bloom.
