KANNAWIDAN 2K20:" A Showcase of Culture and Tradition"

Ilocos Sur is a beautiful province located in the northern part of Luzon. It is a province rich in culture that represents the ancient Spanish and Filipino heritage. To show and share their treasures to the whole world, the locals conceived a festival that highlights these cultural traditions and they called it the “Kannadiwan Festival”. They call it the KANNAWIDAN Ylocos Festival, it is also a time to commemorate the anniversary of Ilocos Sur as a province since it was separated on February 3, 1818. Kannawidan is a variant of the Ilocano word "tawid" meaning heritage or inheritance.

One mission of the festival is paying more attention to the children. It is because of the observation that many traditions, songs, dances, and other Ilocano culture are not recognized by the younger generations of the province. Instead, children are paying more attention to the modern and novelty dances they see television than the traditional ones. It is one of the reasons why the Kannadiwan Festival is conducted. Here, children may appreciate their rich culture and tradition. Also on the opening day of the festival, a traditional ritual is performed by the students of the Ilocos Sur, especially high school students. There are different contests that focus to the ability and skills of the students. These include traditional tribal rituals, choir and glee club competition, marching band contest, traditional music ensemble, dance drama, traditional and folk dances, contemporary dance competition, and street dancing showdown.