The Philippines, due to its tropical climate, generally divides the year into a wet season and dry season rather than the four seasons, but for convenience, we can categorize it as "spring (March to May)," "summer (June to August)," "autumn (September to November)," and "winter (December to February)," and organize the climatic characteristics and main events and cultures for each season.
Introduction
Seasonal events in the Philippines are closely linked to religious celebrations and local traditional festivals, as well as to the climate (dry season, wet season, typhoon season, etc.), playing an important role in daily life and tourism resources.
Spring (March to May)
Climatic Features
- Temperature: Very high nationwide (average over 30°C), with strong sunlight during the day
- Precipitation: Toward the end of the dry season, lower precipitation. From April onwards, afternoon showers gradually increase
- Characteristics: Dry with gentle winds. Longer daylight hours suitable for outdoor activities
Main Events and Culture
Month |
Event |
Content and Relation to Climate |
March |
Holy Week |
The most important event for Catholics. Pilgrimages and processions take place under stable weather of the dry season. |
May |
Flores de Mayo |
A flower festival in honor of Mother Mary. Floats decorated with flowers parade through the streets. This is the time when flowers bloom abundantly in the dry season. |
May |
Santacruzan |
A procession adorned with floral decorations and costumes. This is held grandly outdoors during sunny weather. |
Summer (June to August)
Climatic Features
- Temperature: Very hot and humid, around 30-33°C
- Precipitation: The arrival of the southwest monsoon "Habagat" in June increases rainfall
- Characteristics: Frequent afternoon showers, high humidity and heat increase the risk of heatstroke
Main Events and Culture
Month |
Event |
Content and Relation to Climate |
June |
Independence Day (June 12) |
Transition period from dry season to wet, but outdoor parades and ceremonies are mainly held in the morning. |
June |
Feast of St. John (San Juan) |
Water festival. The tradition of jumping into rivers or springs aligns well with the abundance of water during the wet season. |
August |
National Heroes Day |
A holiday honoring heroes. Outdoor events and memorial ceremonies are held during breaks in the rainy season. |
August |
Kadayawan Festival (Davao) |
A festival celebrating abundance. It is held grandly while enjoying the harvest of fruits and the breath of the wet season. |
Autumn (September to November)
Climatic Features
- Temperature: Slightly cooler, around 29-31°C
- Precipitation: Peak typhoon season from September to October. Gradual decrease in rainfall from November
- Characteristics: High risk of strong winds and heavy rains due to typhoons. Refreshing weather following typhoons
Main Events and Culture
Month |
Event |
Content and Relation to Climate |
October |
Masskara Festival (Bacolod) |
A vibrant celebration of masks and dance. Often held during breaks between typhoons. |
November |
Undas (All Souls' Day and All Saints' Day) |
Traditional cemetery visits. A relatively dry period after the typhoon season when families can gather. |
November |
La Navidad de Pulp |
In some regions celebrated as a harvest festival. Outdoor events are held in the early part of the dry season when rain is less. |
Winter (December to February)
Climatic Features
- Temperature: The most comfortable time of the year, around 24-29°C
- Precipitation: Dry season initiated by the northeast monsoon "Amihan." Lowest rainfall
- Characteristics: Cool breezes and dry air. Chilly nights are also felt
Main Events and Culture
Month |
Event |
Content and Relation to Climate |
December |
Christmas Season |
One of the longest Christmas illuminations in the world. Comfortable outdoor activities due to pleasant dry season weather. |
December |
Simbang Gabi (Dawn Mass) |
Masses held from December 16 to 24. Cool temperatures in the early morning make it easy to attend. |
January |
Feast of the Black Nazarene (2nd Friday) |
A large procession held in Manila. Conducted safely in stable weather of the dry season. |
February |
Panagbenga Flower Festival (Baguio) |
A flower festival held in the flower capital of Baguio. The cool climate is ideal for flower viewing. |
Summary of Seasonal Events and Climate Relationships
Season |
Climatic Features |
Examples of Main Events |
Spring |
Very hot & dry, increasing afternoon showers |
Holy Week, Flores de Mayo, Santacruzan |
Summer |
Hot and humid, Habagat rainy season |
Independence Day, San Juan Festival, Kadayawan Festival |
Autumn |
Peak typhoon season, decreasing rainfall |
Masskara Festival, Undas |
Winter |
Cool breeze, lowest rainfall |
Christmas, Simbang Gabi, Feast of the Black Nazarene, Panagbenga |
Notes
- The names and timing of events may vary by region.
- Attention to safety information is necessary during typhoon season (especially September to October).
- Many festivals are rooted in Catholic events and have developed in connection with agriculture and harvest.
In the Philippines, climate integrates with religious and agricultural culture, offering a variety of events throughout the year.