Cultural Heritage
Festivals of Lavezares
Where faith, culture, and community come alive in vibrant celebration.
January 16–18 · Annual
Pinonayan Festival
Lavezares' grandest celebration, a vibrant street dance festival honoring the Santo Niño in thanksgiving for bountiful harvests and thriving local industries. Performances feature the town's main products: rice, coconut/copra, abaca, and fishing.
First held in 2005, Pinonayan has become the cultural heartbeat of Lavezares. The name comes from Pinonayan, the original name of the town, after the Ponay, a native bird once abundant in these lands.
What to Expect
Street Dance Competition
Barangay contingents compete in elaborate costumes
Cultural Shows
Traditional music, dance, and performances
Industry Parade
Celebrating rice, copra, abaca, and fishing
Santo Niño Procession
Religious procession through the Poblacion
August 20 · Annual
Bankaton Banca Race
Every August 20, Lavezares Bay comes alive with the Bankaton Banca Race, a thrilling traditional boat race paying tribute to the town's seafarers and fisherfolk. Sponsored by the Bankaton de Salvacion Foundation and the Local Government Unit.
What to Expect
Traditional Banca Race
Crews race across Lavezares Bay in handcrafted boats
Fisherfolk Tribute
Honoring the seafaring heritage of Lavezares
Awards & Prizes
Competitions for speed, style, and teamwork
Bayfront Festivities
Food, music, and community fun along the shore
January 7 · Annual
Founding Anniversary
Every January 7, Lavezares commemorates its founding in 1875 by virtue of a decree from the Spanish Governor-General. The day is celebrated with a town parade, cultural shows, and community gatherings honoring 150+ years of history.
What to Expect
Town Parade
A grand march through the Poblacion streets
Cultural Shows
Performances celebrating Lavezares heritage
Historical Tribute
Remembering the 1875 founding decree
Community Gathering
Reunions, feasts, and barangay celebrations