Kalibo Ati-atihan Festival 2010
Posted by on January 16, 2010
Not even a heavy rain can dampen the mood of the Kalibo Ati-atihan festival goers. Thousands of locals and tourists lined up to the streets, but many joined the street dancing parade as soot-covered tribes circle the main streets of Kalibo.
This is my first time to experience the Kalibo Ati-atihan festival, and I must say, I am truly impressed with th celebration. This is something that is very different from the usual fiestas that I have been to. Most of the events I have attended are spectator-type festivals where tourists are only limited at the side street watching the performers.
Kalibo Ati-atihan is very different. Anybody can jus get in the middl of the street and dance to the drums and lyre. There are no specific choreography for the costumed dancers. they are just out in the streets enjoying the time of their life. Offering their dances to the patron saint, Senor Santo Nino.
Last night I has so much fun dancing in the streets, not minding who’s beside me. It really really a time to let the hair down, and leave all inhibitions behind.
The only sad part in my Ati atihan experience is the rain. But who cares, people continue to dance in the streets despite the downpour. And hopefully, if the weather improves tomorrow, my streetdancing adventure here in Kalibo will continue.
Viva Senor Santo Nino! Hala Bira! Pwera Pasma!
Ay abaw! Daw kasadya da sa inyo bala ah! Hehehe! Nagkitaay kamo dira ninday Marc? See you next week ah.
i didnt get to see marc. si vince lang.. tpos si don (www.dontrivino.com) and Fitz (fitzvillafuerte.com) upod kmi kagina,.
I miss Kalibo (my Grandfather’s hometown)…..
My Grandpop keeps on telling me that the Kalibo’s Ati-Atihan is the best there is… I didn’t believe him. I said it’s just pure hype.
Going there and witnessing it prove me wrong. You’re lucky to attend this event.
Hopefully I can attend again next year.
How do you find lodging whenever you decide to photoshoot these festivals?
Very nice photos,hope next year we can attend the
famous Ati-atihan.Viva kay Sr.Sto.Nino fr.Aklan
Ati-atihan of Seattle!
We were there too! Last Sunday, we were doing the procession and one of power lines exploded after being hit by those popping confetti things from the group that we joined. The entire street corner suddenly went silent, even the drums stopped playing… and then suddenly the crowd just erupted in cheers! Foreigners in the area were stunned and was amazed at the spirit of the Filipinos.
Kalibo Ati-atihan is really a festival like no other, and despite the very low govt funding and support compared to Sinulog and Dinagyang – nothing can dampen the spirit of the Aklanons. After all this is truly a festival by the people and for the people.
I will be back in 2012 for the 800th year celebrations! Viva kay Señor Santo Niño!
Btw, we took heaps of photos- check it out here:
http://www.facebook.com/tourismphilippines
Hi Ding,
Ganda ng pics.. I love it!!!!! Sayang di tayo nagkita dun… Punta ka ulit next year.. sa amin ka na mag stay para libre accomodation…
hi ate shaw!!
misshu!!