Every September the rhythmic beats of drums and lively energy from performers take over the streets of Calbayog Cit, Samary as SARAKIKI HADANG FESTIVAL unfolds. It is not just a lavish display of colors and sound, it represents the cultural wealth, spiritual essence and dedication inherent in us Warays. Embedded in the ancient tradition of the land, Sarakiki Hadang Festival is a reflection deep to its soul; where history and culture mingles with faith. 

WHAT INSPIRED THE FESTIVAL?

The origin of Sarakiki Hadang- In Waray culture, we all know that sarakit is a snake, where unnotched something--(wikipedia) The "kikiriki" of the name is about a rooster dance or act, where generally dancing steps that have differentiated this festivity are imitated along to quiet tunes. 

The word "Hadang," meanwhile, refers to an offering or a sacrifice which is very significant in terms of the festival. This combination of elements combines to encapsulate the spirit behind it all: a dynamic mix of dance, ritual and worship. The Sadang Festival has its roots in pre-colonial times when the people of Samar before were still animists. 

They worshiped spirits in nature and held countless ceremonies to greet them, pray for a rich harvest or security on their land. Over the years these animistic practices melded with Catholicism, as it does everywhere in this mainly catholic country (though you'd think otherwise), and a mix of beliefs was born that can still be seen today in many aspects on festival which define masskara. The earlier meter. Though the Sarakiki Hadang Festival is but a celebration of Santo Niño, stillest. 

The festival is also a celebration, giving thanks for the blessings of the year to come and with protection from above. These elements of the spiritual are reflected especially in Rajasthani performances, which often start with a dance that is ritualistic and represents giving away, akin to stone-age practices of ancient peoples in the region. The festival has dances with fast bird-like movements patterned after the sarakiki, or rooster dance. Wearing colorful costumes embedded with feathers and beads, the performers dance intensively as drums, gongs or other traditional musical instruments. The dances also hold a spiritual importance, functioning not only as story-telling medium but an offering to their religion; each step is carefully planned with cultural and religious believes.

feathers and beads, the performers dance intensively as drums, gongs or other traditional musical instruments. 

The dances also hold a spiritual importance, functioning not only as story-telling medium but an offering to their religion; each step is carefully planned with cultural and religious believes. A fusion of tradition and modernity. While the Sarakiki Hadang Festival is a tribute to bygone days, it's also an exuberant celebration. The festival has developed over the years from being a traditional to becoming an umbrella with numerous contemporary elements. 

Today, the ancient traditions are reinvigorated with contemporary music, choreography and swash buckled costumes that together make it one of the most sensational spectacles for both residents as well as visitors. It has also served as cultural platform of the Waray people to exhibit their distinct and diverse identity. 

It also showcases the best products from local artisans and entrepreneurs, which are comprised of handicrafts, souvenirs as well other inspired or personalized outputs that reflect the ingenuity and craftsmanship of Waraynon. 

A COMMEMORATIVE TALE ABOUT COMMUNITY AND STRENGTH

Sarakiki Hadang Festival is not just a conventional but it stands as the longest cultural celebration in history it’s also a tale of commemorating community, strength & faith. It is a time for the people of Samar to unite.