With the arrival of 2024, the Philippines is preparing for a year marked by lively festivities and significant customs. The archipelago celebrates various holidays that honor the nation's history, religious customs, and cultural legacy, showcasing its complex cultural fabric. Let us examine the thrilling festivals that Filipinos will commemorate in 2024.
1. New Year's Day (January 1, 2024):
At the beginning of the year, Filipinos enthusiastically celebrate the New Year with lively parties, fireworks, and the customary media noche—a midnight feast that signifies a fortunate beginning.
2. Chinese New Year (January 22, 2024):
Filipinos commemorate Chinese New Year by enthusiastically participating in lively parades, captivating dragon dances, and indulging in lavish feasts, marking the arrival of the Year of the Dragon.
3. EDSA People Power Revolution Anniversary (February 25, 2024):
This official holiday marks the commemoration of the nonviolent revolution in 1986 that overthrew an authoritarian regime. The Filipino people commemorate the ideals of solidarity and democratic principles through various activities, such as memorial ceremonies and reenactments of significant historical events.
4. Day of Valor (April 9, 2024)
Araw ng Kagitingan, commonly known as the Day of Valor, is a prominent national holiday commemorated in the Philippines on April 9th each year. This day is dedicated to honoring the bravery and selflessness displayed by Filipino and American soldiers amid World War II. The main event linked with Araw ng Kagitingan is the Bataan Death March, which began on April 9, 1942.
5. Holy Week (April 10-16, 2024):
Holy Week holds great religious importance for the predominantly Catholic community. The period encompasses Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Black Saturday and reaches its climax on Easter Sunday. Many individuals partake in processions and religious services throughout this sad period.
6. Labor Day (May 1, 2024):
Labor Day commemorates the invaluable contributions made by Filipino laborers. Nationwide, parades, demonstrations, and diverse activities occur, emphasizing the significance of labor and workers' rights.
7. Independence Day (June 12, 2024):
The Philippines celebrates its independence from Spanish domination on this day. The festivities encompass flag-raising ceremonies, historical exhibits, and patriotic events that pay tribute to the nation's sovereignty.
8. National Heroes Day (August 26, 2024):
This day commemorates the courage and selflessness displayed by Filipino heroes. National Heroes Day is a remembrance and tribute to those who have significantly influenced the nation. Wreath-laying ceremonies, historical lectures, and parades mark it.
9. Bonifacio Day: (November 30, 2024):
This holiday, named in tribute to the revolutionary leader Andres Bonifacio, commemorates his significant contributions to the Philippine fight for independence. The activities encompass wreath-laying ceremonies, educational programs, and cultural events.
10. Christmas Day (December 25, 2024):
The Christmas season in the Philippines is characterized by a jubilant atmosphere, marked by the presence of joy, familial get-togethers, and the observance of traditional Simbang Gabi (night masses). Homes and streets are embellished with decorations, and the holiday ambiance saturates every nook and cranny of the archipelago.
11. Rizal Day (December 30, 2024):
This day is dedicated to honoring the life and achievements of Jose Rizal, a national hero. It involves various ceremonies, events where wreaths are laid, and cultural activities that reflect the nation's past and aspirations.
Conversely, the subsequent days were designated as special non-working days:
August 21st is observed as Ninoy Aquino Day.
November 1st is celebrated as All Saints' Day.
December 8th marks the celebration of the Immaculate Conception of Mary.
December 31st marks the final day of the year.
Extra designated days that are not considered as working days:
February 10th marks the celebration of Chinese New Year.
March 30th is commonly referred to as Black Saturday.
November 2nd is observed as All Souls' Day.
December 24th is widely known as Christmas Eve.
The Proclamation stated that the declarations of national holidays for the observance of Eid Fitr and Eid Adha would be issued after determining the approximate dates of the Islamic holidays by the Islamic calendar (Hijra) or the lunar calendar or through Islamic astronomical calculations, whichever is feasible or convenient.
The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos is instructed to recommend the dates for the Eid'l Fitr and Eid Adha holidays to the Office of the President (OP) at the proper time. PND
As Filipinos progress through 2024, these holidays offer introspection, appreciation, and solidarity opportunities. The various festivities highlight the Philippines' ability to bounce back, its cultural abundance, and the shared essence of this lively country. Whether commemorating historical events, religious milestones, or cultural customs, each holiday contributes to the Philippines' unique identity and enduring strength.
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