How to Enjoy Parada ng Lechon Festival in Balayan Batangas?

"Parada ng Lechon" is one ultimate fiesta experience in the Philippines you shouldn't miss during the month of June. It is an annual festival in the historic town of Balayan in the province of Batangas in celebration of the feast day of St. John de Baptist every June 24th. Get ready to experience a unique parade of decorated roasted pigs and expect to get wet, splashed and drenched with water and get "baptized" again.

"Mark your calendars and save the date! Parada ng Lechon Festival in Balayan, Batangas will be on June 24th!"

During the festival, about a hundred lechon parade along the streets of Balayan leading to the town church. The roasted pigs are dressed according to the theme of the participating groups. It is definitely fun to see lechons dressed as a basketball player, a beauty queen, a motorcycle driver, among many others.

TIPS AND REMINDERS WHEN ATTENDING THE PARADA NG LECHON

• Arrive early, the roads are closed for the parade, you will need to walk from the hi-way to the town center.
• The parade starts at around 9:00 AM.
• Get ready to be wet, waterproof your things and bring extra clothes.
• It's better if you use a waterproof camera.
• Have fun! Bawal ang pikon! :)

WHERE TO STAY? Click here to search for hotels in Batangas

HOW TO GET TO BALAYAN, BATANGAS

Coming from Manila, take a bus bound for Balayan, Batangas. Bus terminals can be found in Pasay or Sta. Cruz, Manila. You may also take a bus bound for Nasugbu, tell the driver that you will get off at Palico; from there, ride a jeepney to Balayan. Another option is take a bus to Lemery. From there, take a jeepney going to Balayan. Travel time from Manila to Balayan is about 2.5 to 3 hours, fare is around 180-200 pesos.

For more photos, you may checkout my "Parada ng Lechon 2013" experience.