Ati-Atihan Festival
The Ati-Atihan Festival is a vibrant cultural celebration held annually in Kalibo, Aklan, Philippines. It typically takes place in January in honor of the Santo Niño, or the Child Jesus. Participants paint their faces with black soot and wear colorful traditional attire, creating a lively atmosphere filled with music, dance, and parades.
Originally, the festival commemorates the arrival of the Malay settlers and their interactions with the indigenous Ati people. Over the years, it has evolved into a major tourist attraction, showcasing the rich heritage and traditions of the Visayan region while promoting unity and community spirit among locals.