So you’ve heard the stories — about candlelit processions, street dancing under the sun, the scent of fresh banana chips in the air, and the old church ringing its bells loud and proud during the town’s biggest day. That’s Majayjay, Laguna during festival season.
And now you’re wondering, “How do I join in?”
Whether you’re a tourist, a balikbayan, a curious traveler from the next town, or even a local who’s never really jumped into the festivities — this guide is for you. No fluff, no formalities — just real tips on how to join, enjoy, and respect the beautiful chaos that is a Majayjay festival.
What Festivals Happen in Majayjay?
Here are the main cultural and religious events you’ll want to experience:
- Feast of Saint Gregory the Great – April 9
- Holy Week Processions – March/April (varies yearly)
- Anihan Festival – November (harvest thanksgiving)
- Paskuhan sa Majayjay – Entire month of December
- Barangay Fiestas – Year-round, depending on the barangay
Each event has its own mood — from solemn to joyful, quiet to electric. But they all share one thing: community.
1. Come as You Are — But Dress the Part
Majayjay’s festivals aren’t about who’s best dressed — but what you wear still matters, especially during religious events.
What to wear:
- Modest clothing (no sleeveless tops or short shorts during church activities)
- Comfortable footwear for walking during processions or parades
- A light hat and fan for daytime events
- Bring a jacket or shawl — the evenings can get cold, especially near the mountain
You’ll thank yourself for blending in while staying comfy.
2. Know the Schedule (and Be Early)
Timing is everything. Most festivals follow a day-to-night rhythm, with:
- Masses and processions in the morning or early evening
- Street performances or fairs in the afternoon
- Live music, food booths, and games at night
Ask locals or check with the Majayjay Municipal Office or the barangay hall. Don’t expect fancy websites — most schedules are announced on the town’s official Facebook page or through printed posters around the plaza.
3. Join the Processions Respectfully
During major religious events — especially Holy Week or the Feast of Saint Gregory — processions happen all around the town center.
How to join:
- Arrive early to the St. Gregory the Great Church
- Bring a small candle or handheld light
- Fall in line respectfully; don’t push forward
- Follow the crowd’s pace — no overtaking
- Observe silence or prayerful singing
Even if you’re not Catholic, it’s a beautiful spiritual moment you’re welcome to join — just stay humble and present.
4. Eat with the Locals
No Majayjay celebration is complete without food — lots of it. During fiestas, people open their homes, set out long tables, and invite anyone who walks by.
Tips for joining a food feast:
- If someone says “Kain tayo,” they mean it.
- Don’t wait to be served — fill your plate, smile, and enjoy.
- Be ready for native dishes like pancit, nilaga, embutido, ginataang bilo-bilo, suman, and fresh vegetables from nearby farms.
- Always say thank you — and compliment the host if you enjoyed it.
Want to try something from the market? Look for banana chips, kamote fries, halo-halo, or barako coffee from stalls around the plaza.
5. Join the Crowd, Not Just the Show
There’s no VIP section here. In Majayjay, everyone’s a participant — not just a spectator.
You can:
- Help decorate a barangay chapel
- Join street dancing during the Anihan Festival
- Volunteer to help clean up or guide guests (especially if you’re a student or resident)
- Dance with the crowd during live music nights in the plaza
And if you’re just visiting? Smile, clap, sing along — you’re part of it now.
6. Mind the Traditions and Superstitions
Majayjay has old-school values and a few unwritten rules:
- Don’t step in front of religious images during processions
- Don’t laugh or talk loudly in the church
- When entering homes, greet the elders
- If you feel lost or unsure, ask anyone — people are more than happy to explain the tradition
Also, during some rituals, locals say a quiet “tabi po” when passing trees or trails — a respectful nod to old beliefs.
7. Respect the Space — And the Silence
Some moments are loud and wild, like street dancing or concerts. Others are sacred and still — especially the Good Friday procession or Easter dawn salubong.
Know when to be joyful, and when to be silent. It’s this rhythm of reverence and celebration that gives Majayjay’s festivals their soul.
Final Thoughts: From Guest to Family
To participate in Majayjay’s festivals is to step into something bigger than yourself.
It’s not a tourist show. It’s not curated for content. It’s life, lived in devotion and joy, shared generously by people who love their town, their God, and their traditions.
So show up. Eat the suman. Light the candle. Cheer during the dance. Laugh with the kids playing by the plaza.
And by the time the lights dim and the town returns to quiet, you’ll feel like you were never just a visitor.
FAQs:
Do I need to be a local to join Majayjay’s festivals?
Not at all. Visitors and tourists are welcome to join. Just follow basic etiquette and respect the religious and cultural practices.
Can tourists join the Holy Week processions in Majayjay?
Yes. Anyone may join the processions, but participants are expected to wear modest clothing and remain silent or prayerful during the walk.
3. Do I need to register to participate in Majayjay festivals?
For most events, no registration is required. Simply show up. For activities like street dancing or food booths, locals may organize rehearsals or planning meetings in advance.
