Historical Significance
The Tan-A-We Festival is held every March 10 in Tanauan City. The name “Tan-a-we” comes from the Batangueño term tanaw-e, derived from tanaw, meaning “to look through.” The festival pays tribute to Tanauan’s historic role of watching over trade and travel—its identity linked to its vantage point by the waterways and land routes leading into the town. The event is also aligned with Tanauan’s cityhood anniversary and sets a tone of unity, progress and growth for the local community.
Unique Traditions
One of the festival’s signature events is a street-dancing parade, where barangays enter contingents with colorful costumes and choreographed routines symbolizing Tanauan’s heritage and bright future. Another highlight is the Traditional Dress Competition, where participants from across the city use indigenous materials to craft stunning attire that reflect local ingenuity and culture. There is also the Arko Design Competition—competition of large decorative arches made by barangays, using local materials and showcasing creativity, placed along major thoroughfares. In recent editions, a short film festival has been introduced to engage the youth and creative community in illustrating Tanauan’s cultural story through 3-5 minute films. These activities make Tan-a-we a creative, community-driven celebration of both heritage and innovation.
Video from Im The Juan OFFICIAL
Cultural Impact
The Tan-A-We Festival reinforces Tanauan’s identity as a city that honours its past while looking forward. It brings together residents of all ages in shared celebration, strengthens community bonds, and showcases local creativity and talent. Economically and culturally, the festival boosts local tourism by inviting visitors into Tanauan for lively, vibrant events that highlight the city’s heritage and vision. It also fosters pride in the city’s roots and its future aspirations—making Tan-a-we more than just a festival, but a statement of Tanauan’s unity, growth and shared destiny.