Capiztahan: Capiz Capiztahan: Ultimate Festival Guide & Schedule
Every April, the province comes alive with vibrant colors, music, and flavors during its grandest celebration. This iconic event blends history, culture, and culinary excellence into an unforgettable experience.
Roxas City, known as the Seafood Capital of the Philippines, serves as the festival’s bustling hub. Visitors enjoy street dances, parades, and fresh seafood feasts while honoring local heritage.
In 2025, the festival expands to 19 days, featuring drone shows and international triathlon competitions. It’s a perfect mix of tradition and modern excitement.
Key Takeaways
- Celebrates cultural heritage, history, and seafood traditions
- Hosted in Roxas City, the seafood capital of the Philippines
- 2025 dates: April 1-6 & 15 with extended 19-day format
- New attractions include drone shows and triathlon events
- Organized by the provincial government’s tourism office
The History and Significance of Capiz Capiztahan
Rooted in centuries of tradition, this festival blends historical milestones with vibrant cultural expressions. Its origins date back to 1901, when the civil government was established under Act No. 115. This pivotal moment laid the foundation for the province’s modern identity.
The event also honors President Manuel A. Roxas, whose 1948 death anniversary shares the same date. “Tahan na sa Capiz,” a tourism slogan coined in 2007, inspired the festival’s name, merging local pride with festive spirit.
Pre-colonial roots are equally vital. The Maragtas legends document early Panay settlements, while archaeological finds like Capiz shell artifacts reveal indigenous craftsmanship. These elements enrich the celebration’s cultural tapestry.
In 2025, the provincial government marks its 124th founding anniversary. The festival’s evolution—from a 2008 institutionalization to today’s grand scale—mirrors the region’s growth. It’s a living tribute to resilience and heritage.
Capiztahan Festival Highlights
Dive into a whirlwind of culture, seafood, and tradition at this annual spectacle. The celebration blends solemn tributes with electrifying performances, showcasing the province’s rich heritage. Each event is carefully curated to honor history while thrilling visitors.
Death Anniversary of President Manuel A. Roxas
The festival pays homage to the late president with a wreath-laying ceremony at Roxas City Public Plaza. A flag-raising event and historical reenactments add depth to the memorial. These activities reflect the city’s respect for its most iconic leader.
Food Trip sa Capiz
Indulge in a free seafood buffet featuring prawns, crabs, and the prized diwal shellfish. Local restaurants collaborate to highlight sustainable sourcing. This gastronomic journey solidifies the city’s title as the Seafood Capital of the Philippines.
Pasundayag Capiznon
Witness LED-lit performances that evolved from the 2012 Parade of Lights. Dancers wear costumes with intricate light displays, blending tech and tradition. The show culminates in a pyrotechnic finale, dazzling audiences.
Sadsad Capiz
Seventeen municipal teams compete in a seafood-themed dance competition. Judges evaluate cultural authenticity and choreography precision. The 2025 edition introduces augmented reality elements to enhance storytelling.
New this year: the Maragtas Sang Capisnon parade, a 3-act drama depicting Panay’s founding legends. Companion events include banca races and the Mutya Sang Capiz pageant. Timed entry slots ensure COVID-safe enjoyment.
Capiztahan 2025: What to Expect
The 2025 edition brings fresh excitement with expanded events and cultural showcases. Celebrating the province’s 124th founding anniversary, the schedule blends tradition with innovation across 19 action-packed days.
Highlights include the Maragtas parade on April 5, where Dr. Jose Maria Villanueva’s historical narratives come to life. The Saot Capiz folk dance competition, an ATOP-DOT awardee, returns with vibrant storytelling.
New this year: the Capiz Investors’ Forum and an LGBTQ+ Pride March. Trade fairs like Negosyo Capizeño and Jambayan street food market will feature local artisans and chefs.
Athletes can tackle the triathlon course along Baybay Beach, while foodies explore the Farmers’ Market’s live auctions. The province’s sustainability efforts shine with zero-waste kitchens and eco-packaging.
Roxas City’s Villareal Stadium hosts the Hangaway kag Lin-ay coronation on April 3. For nightlife, Kapuso Night promises celebrity-hosted entertainment.
Practical perks include TESDA-sponsored job fairs and tourism shuttle services. Hotel packages offer seamless stays for visitors diving into the celebration.
Conclusion
More than just a festival, it’s a cultural phenomenon uniting communities. The event’s 2023 Unity Dance drew 32,000 participants, showcasing its economic ripple effect. Recognized by the ATOP-DOT Pearl Awards, the celebration sets a benchmark for cultural-culinary tourism.
Plan your visit during April’s dry season for ideal weather. Pair the experience with trips to Panay Church or Olotayan Island. Contact the province’s tourism office ([email protected], +63 36 6212-935) for early 2025 bookings.
With government-backed sustainability efforts and legendary seafood feasts, this anniversary event proves tradition and innovation thrive together. Don’t miss the show that defines the province’s spirit.
