Historical Significance
The Parada ng Lechon, or Lechon Festival, is one of the most renowned celebrations in the Philippines, held annually every June 24 in Balayan, Batangas. This date coincides with the Feast of St. John the Baptist, in whose honor the festival is dedicated.
The origins of the Parada ng Lechon can be traced back to an old thanksgiving custom practiced by the working class in the Kanluran district (Western Poblacion) of Balayan. During the Spanish and American colonial periods, families who received blessings throughout the year would parade a lechon—a roasted pig—around the town plaza as a gesture of gratitude and veneration to their patron saint, St. John the Baptist.
As time passed, this humble act of thanksgiving grew in scale. In 1959, the elders of Kanluran organized the Hermandad San Juan Bautista (Brotherhood of St. John the Baptist) to formally oversee the celebration. This group transformed the one-day event into a grand, two-week festival filled with various community activities, marking the institutionalization of what has become known as the Parada ng Lechon.
Unique Traditions
The festival is famous for its colorful parade of lechons—whole roasted pigs decorated and carried through the streets by different barangays. Each lechon is creatively adorned, showcasing the artistry and pride of the people of Balayan.
One of the most distinctive customs associated with the celebration is the water dousing tradition. During the parade, spectators enthusiastically splash water—and sometimes even beer—on participants and onlookers alike. This playful act reflects the link to St. John the Baptist, known for baptizing through water, but it also has roots in older spring festivals celebrated across Southeast Asia, suggesting a blend of cultural influences over time.
Over the years, additional elements have been introduced to heighten the festivity: street parties, live bands, beer-drinking, beauty pageants, among other activities. Colorful banners, uniforms, and souvenir shirts further contribute to the vibrant and energetic atmosphere that fills Balayan during the celebration.
Video from Sonny Jr Tolentino
Cultural Impact
From a small thanksgiving ritual of the Kanluran working class, the Parada ng Lechon has evolved into a world-famous event that draws local and foreign tourists, businesses, and even media attention each year. It has been featured in various travel publications and is now considered one of the most unique and hospitable fiesta celebrations in the Philippines.
The festival not only highlights Balayan’s culinary pride—the iconic lechon—but also reflects the community’s enduring faith, creativity, and sense of unity. For the people of Balayan, the Parada ng Lechon stands as both a living expression of devotion and a celebration of the town’s rich historical and cultural identity.
