The Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival of Festivals is held in Tacloban City every June 29th in honor of Sr. Santo Niño. The Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival is actually two festivals merged together to form one large and colorful celebration. Kasadyaan Festival represents the people from the various communities in Leyte that come together for the dance and celebration. Each community has their own theme that reflects the folklore, legends and reflects their pride in their community. The Pintados Festival is a cultural and religious festival commemorating the ancient warriors (Pintados). The ancient warriors were covered in tattoos as a symbol of courage and strength and this tradition is portrayed in the festival.
The most anticipated event of the Pintados festival is the festive dancers. They are painted from head to toe with designs intended to mimic the armor and tattoos of the warriors of old. With the sounds and beats of the native instruments filling the air men and woman file into the streets adorned in the colorful and often elaborate costumes and proceed to dance and parade through the streets of Tacloban City, Leyte. As you watch the colorful spectacle you can’t help but get feel for what it must have been like in the ancient times in Leyte. At the end of the parade a traditional Philippines Fiesta follows and all those in attendance are welcome to join in the celebration the is the Pintados festival.
In addition to the Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival in Tacloban City there are many additional Festivals in other Leyte communities providing you with additional options to join the celebration.
