During our Familiarization Tour in Puerto Princesa, we are able to witness the soft opening of the Baragatan Festival 2017 held on the Capitol grounds. The Baragatan Festival is a two-week long event featuring the bounties of each municipality of Palawan. We are able to witness the first day and soft opening of the trade fair. While the trade fair is really not full blast, but we are able to check other kiosks ready and crafts on display. I am amazed at the artistry of locals as checked the carvings, sculptures, and trinkets on sale – majority made by hand! Kudos to the local artists.

 

 

There is a photo exhibit as well featuring the works of amateur and professional photographers. I am astounded by their photographic works! Aside from the handicrafts on display, there are food and snack kiosks around.  Sweet aroma of freshly grilled seafood seemingly fills the air that makes our tummy rumble. This is where spent another quality dinner surrounded by happy crowd enjoying their food. The event is serenaded with a live band introducing local artists and musicians. We left the Capitol grounds with a smile and full bellies.

On its second day and after we visited Honda Bay, we rushed to the Capitol grounds to see what program is on. They’re having a dance off of senior citizens wearing traditional or colorful costumes – such an awe inspiring moment. It is a rare event to include old age locals in this type of activity, but here they are, tapping foots, waving arms and bending those hips at the tune of their chosen music.

 

 

We also checked other kiosks that opened that day. During our stroll, we saw beauty pageant winners visiting the displays of their respective municipality.

We are unable to see the float parade but was able to catch this humongous crocodile float.

 

 

 

Other products and handicrafts on display: