Kamundagan Festival

The Kamundagan Festival 2026 is expected to take place throughout December 2026 in Naga City, Camarines Sur. According to the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), the festival is a month-long Christmas celebration featuring events such as the Kiti-Kiti, Pastoras, and the Bikol Song Festival.

The word “Kamundagan” comes from the Bikol term associated with birth, particularly the birth of Jesus Christ during the Christmas season. Unlike the earlier inaccurate version linked to North Cotabato and harvest traditions, Kamundagan Festival is officially associated with Naga City in the Bicol Region and is celebrated as a major holiday festival.

The celebration transforms Naga City into a festive Christmas destination filled with:

• Holiday lights
• Cultural performances
• Food fairs
• Christmas concerts
• Community gatherings
• Religious activities

Travelers interested in Filipino Christmas traditions may also enjoy Paskuhan sa Barangay 2026 and Religion In The Philippines.

History of Kamundagan Festival

Kamundagan Festival began during the administration of former Naga City Mayor Jesse Robredo in the early 1990s as a city-wide Christmas celebration.

The festival was created to celebrate:

• Christmas traditions
• Community unity
• Bikol culture
• Local artistry
• Public participation during the holiday season

For many years, the festival was also associated with Naga City’s charter celebrations before the charter anniversary was officially moved to June.

Today, Kamundagan Festival remains one of the most important Christmas celebrations in the Bicol Region.

Main Festival Highlights

Christmas Light Displays

Public plazas and streets in Naga City are decorated with:

• Christmas lanterns
• Holiday lighting installations
• Giant Christmas trees
• Festive public displays

Kiti-Kiti and Pastoras Performances

Traditional Christmas-themed performances are among the festival’s signature events.

These include:

• Folk dances
• Christmas street presentations
• Musical performances
• Community-based holiday traditions

Bikol Song Festival and Community Events

Visitors can enjoy:

• Local music competitions
• Holiday concerts
• Food fairs
• Tourism exhibits
• Cultural programs

Travelers interested in Bikolano culture may also enjoy People of the Philippines and Their Culture.

Best Time To Visit Naga City

The festival runs throughout December, especially during the weeks leading to Christmas.

Visitors traveling during this period can experience festive city decorations and numerous community activities across Naga.

Travelers may also enjoy reading Ultimate Philippines Packing List for Every Season.

Things To Do Around Naga City

Festival visitors can also explore:

• Peñafrancia Basilica
• Plaza Quince Martires
• Local Bikol food destinations
• Heritage churches
• Nearby eco-tourism attractions

Adventure travelers may also enjoy The Provincial Bus Experience: Routes, Companies, and Travel Tips.

Travel Tips for Kamundagan Festival

• Expect busy streets and shopping areas during December.
• Bring umbrellas for occasional rain showers.
• Try traditional Bikolano holiday delicacies.
• Visit public plazas at night for Christmas light displays.
• Reserve accommodations early during peak holiday travel.

For official tourism updates, visit the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines and the Department of Tourism Philippines.