Kannawidan Ylocos Festival: Pride of Ilocano Culture

          Kannawidan is a variant of the Ilocano word "tawid" meaning heritage or inheritance. The Kannawidan (local term for traditional practice) festival was also an occasion to strengthen the Ilocano culture, recognize Ilocos Sur's sons and daughters who brought honor to the province, celebrate abundant harvest or just to celebrate the Ilocano spirit that continues to drive locals to boost the province. It is an Ilocano term meaning feast of rich heritage and culture. It marks the 198th foundation of Ilocos Sur, which separated the province from Ilocos Norte by a Royal Decree on February 2, 1818.

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         Ilocos Sur has a rich heritage and unique culture that are to be preserved for the next generations because it is observed that many of these traditions, songs, dances and other Ilocano culture are not familiar to the younger generations already. Children of today are paying more attention to the modern and novelty dances they seen on the television than the traditional ones. There is also a need to evaluate the different products of the different municipalities and the agricultural products and livestock of the farmers and fisher folks. Because of this, the provincial government of Ilocos Sur conceived a festival that will highlight these culture and traditions and attract local and foreign tourists as well. They call it the KANNAWIDAN Ylocos Festival, it is also a time to commemorate the anniversary of Ilocos Sur as a province since it was separated on February 3, 1818.

          It is a celebration that lasts from the last week of January up to the first week of February. Included in the course of events is the commemoration of the foundation day of the province.The festival showcases the rich heritage, tradition, culture, arts, crafts and delicacies of Ilocos Sur. Various festivities were staged from trade, agriculture, aqua and a display of farm products. Tradition was also found in the culinary treats that residents prepared including delicacies that Ilocos Sur is known for. Different Municipalities displayed products under the One-Town-One-Product (OTOP) booth inside the trade fair. Traditional games were played.There were Sarsuela and choir competition. and also the Saniata which is the showcasing the beauty of Ilocanas.

          Kannawidan Festival is very important, because this festival, we are preserving the culture, history and the old traditions of Ilocos Sur. Every Ilocanos were going to Vigan City where kannasidan usually take place every year just to celebrate this festival. We must be proud of being an Ilocano because even foreigners admire our culture and traditions.