The Island Garden City of Samal has the perfect location for a quiet retreat by the sea. A stay at Hof Gorei Beach Resort, for example, will end a day with a satisfying dip in the infinity pool while being bathed by the golden sunset. Snorkeling and diving are also popular activities in the island with many resorts renting out equipment to those who want to see the rich seascape. Indeed, summer is the best time to head to the island and enjoy its natural wonders. But if you're not one for in-season celebrations of the sun and sand, you can choose to head to Samal Island on choice dates where the whole community is in a joyous celebration.
Here are 3 festivals in Samal that will not only relax you but introduce you to a rich culture that maintains strong ties with its environment despite the development brought about by tourism.
1. Caracoles Festival
Celebrated every April 28 and 29, Caracoles Festival is the most colorful of Samal Island's celebrations. The festival takes its name after seashells — which is called 'caracoles' in the local language — an apt symbol of summer and thanksgiving for the island's rich marine resources. The festival was inaugurated in 2005 with a week-long celebration after the local government formulated an event which will depict Davao as a top diving destination in the Philippines.
Among the regular features of the Caracoles Festival are:
Regatta – a colorful parade of boats;
Baile del Ano – a street dance featuring performers in marine animal costumes;
Estrella del Mar – a competition of sea creature costumes;
Baile del Mar – dances and circus acts performed along the white sand shore;
Recordida – a motorcade around the city;
Kumbera – an exhibit and tasting of local dishes and beverages;
Dive Congress – underwater photography workshop and contest;
Scubasurero – coastal cleanup, among many others.
2. Kabasan Festival
Kabasan Festival is celebrated every 28th of May in the district of Babak, Samal Island. During the district's founding anniversary, festival-goers can take part in a motocross challenge, fireworks display, a live band performance, and a trip to the Monfort Bat Cave. It also features a seafood market, bikini open, street parties, and a number of competitions.
3. Paniki Festival
Paying tribute to the Guinness World Records-recognized largest colony of fruit bats in the world is the Paniki Festival every June 18 to 22. The 1.8 million-strong Geoffroy’s Rousette fruit bats found in Monfort Bat Cave are said to be responsible for the bountiful harvest of tropical fruits not only in Samal but in the entirety of Davao.
Plan a trip to Samal Island and a relaxing stay at Hof Gorei Beach Resort to enjoy this unique cooperation between nature and the human community.
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