When we speak of festivals in the Philippines, what comes up are festivals in remote areas that can be reached via a plane ride or long drive from Manila. Such festivals include the Ati-Atihan in Kalibo, the Sinulog Festival in Cebu, Dinagyang in Iloilo, or the Panagbenga in Baguio.
However, if you want to experience Filipino festival, you need not go far from Manila. Happening yearly in the Central Business District of the Philippines, Makati City, is the Caracol Festival. "Caracol" is a Spanish term for Snail Shell, a freshwater shellfish that can withstand harsh conditions. This symbolizes the resistance of the Filipinos to the hardships of life. Compared to other Filipino festivals that have been around for decades, the Caracol Festival can be considered as a newbie since it only started in 1989 and became Makati's official festival in 2010.
What can you expect when you come see the Caracol Festival? Being nature-themed, you'll see dance troupes in colorful, nature-inspired costumes dancing to the beat of drums. Groups are made up of high school students, business employees, and government personnel.
The festival is held in the new Circuit Makati, a race track-turned-park. For easy access to the festival grounds, book a hotel in Makati so you can easily commute going to the venue. To get the best hotels at the best rates, book your holiday with a travel agent.