Bohol Holidays

Bohol is famous for its Chocolate Hills which are located in the middle of the island. The unusually shaped hills are named after the brown colour they change to during the summer months. How these hills were formed is still a mystery and there are several different stories of what could of caused them, one of which involved two feuding giants who hurled rocks, boulders and sand at each other to eventually form the hills that were then forgotten about the two enemies became friends. Perhaps a more romantic tale of the hills' formation is that of Arogo, another giant, who fell in love with Aloya, a mortal. She didn't return his love so he cried for days; the legend goes that the hills are formed of his dried tears. As one of the island's most talked about and hyped attractions, the hills are truly magnificent and straddle three municipalities. It's well worth the 20-30 minute walk up to see the hills in all their glory and for fantastic photo opportunities.

The smallest primate on earth, Bohol is famed for being the home of the tarsier. Pay a visit to the Tarsier Sanctuary, dedicated to the preservation of this tiny animal and continuously raising environmental awareness and establishing protected areas. Take one of the various trails from the visitors centre where you can walk to see the tarsiers in their natural environment and hear from the guides about how this species is being protected.

The month of May is known as Bohol’s Fiesta Month, and feast days are held across various towns on the island. These often involve plenty of street dancing, town and church decorations, beauty competitions and so much more. We should also mention that there is an abundance of scrumptious local fare that are dished out to locals and visitors alike. Prepare to add an inch or two to your waistline during this fantastic event.

Sandugo Festival is a month-long celebration held in Tagbilaran City. This is when the island celebrates the Treaty of Friendship between Spain’s Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Bohol’s Rajah Sikatuna, which was confirmed back in 1565. Expect plenty of dancing, night markets, beauty pageants and, of course, local food.

Ubi Festival is hosted every second week of January in Bohol. The event pays homage to the ubi crop, a purple sweet potato, and features plenty of ubi-related celebrations including an exhibit, an ubi competition, and an agribusiness investment opportunities show.

Celebrated on the 27th February every year, the Pandayan Festival is hosted at Barangay Lonoy in Jagna. The event commemorates the parochial anniversary of St. Joseph the Worker Parish. Expect a nine day novena (devotional praying) to credit the patron saint. There is also a carpentry and handicrafts fair, a basketball competition and a street dancing contest to keep you entertained.

Hosted every 23rd to 24th May in Loboc, Bolibong Kingking festival is held to celebrate the folklore and traditions from the history of the region. The fascinating name refers to the sounds and rhythms of local gimbaw drums. Visitors can enjoy plenty of local dancing, music and food.

The island of Bohol is also known for its local sweet treats. One of these native goodies is the delicious peanut kisses. The crunchy snack is a favourite among both children and adults. Inspired by the USA’s famous Hershey Kisses, locals decided to create their spin on the popular treat. Peanut Kisses are crafted with peanuts and egg whites and are designed to resemble the island’s famous Chocolate Hills. 

Another delicious indulgence to try on your Bohol holidays is Kalamay. This thick and sweet delicacy is crafted with coconut milk, brown sugar and ground rice. Chopped peanuts are optional. Served in a coconut shell, this sweet treat is a novelty.