CEBU CITY, Philippines– October in the Philippines is a month that signals the arrival of cooler winds, preparations for year-end festivities, and a variety of cultural, political, and seasonal events.
To prepare you for the 10th month of the year, here is a list of what to expect this month.
Cooler weather, typhoons
As October rolls in, the country begins transitioning from the wet season to the cooler months of the northeast monsoon or “Amihan.” The weather becomes more pleasant, with cooler mornings and evenings, especially in elevated areas like Baguio or Tagaytay. However, it’s still important to watch out for occasional typhoons, as the rainy season officially ends in November.
Oktoberfest celebrations
Oktoberfest has become a highly anticipated event across the country, especially in major cities like Manila, Cebu, and Davao. Beer enthusiasts can expect large-scale parties, live performances, and of course, plenty of beer.
Halloween preparations
Filipinos have embraced Halloween in recent years, with malls and communities hosting costume contests, trick-or-treating events, and spooky-themed parties. Expect to see both kids and adults donning creative costumes, and businesses promoting Halloween-themed deals and activities throughout the month.
Preparations for Undas/Kalag-kalag (All Saints’ and All Souls’ Day)
Though November 1 and 2 are the official dates for Undas, the preparation for this significant occasion begins in October. Families start cleaning and repainting graves, preparing food offerings, and buying candles and flowers. Cemeteries across the country will start to see more activity as the holiday approaches.
Festival season
October is filled with colorful local festivals. In Bacolod, the MassKara Festival is held, which is known for its vibrant street dancing, smiling masks, and lively parades. Other notable October festivals include the Zamboanga Hermosa Festival in Zamboanga City and the Lanzones Festival in Camiguin, which showcases the island’s famed fruit.
Election buzz
October often sees political buzz in the country as the filing of certificates of candidacy for local elections takes place, especially when elections are scheduled for the following year. This year, the filing is set from October 1 to 8.
Celebrated this month:
- -ADHD Awareness Month
- -AIDS Awareness Month
- -Down Syndrome Awareness Month
- -National Indigenous People Month
- -Breast Cancer Awareness Month
- -Filipino American History Month
- Special days in October
Here’s a list of some of the special days in October:
October 1:
International Coffee Day
International Day of Older Persons
International Music Day
October 4:
Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi
World Animal Day
October 5:
World Teacher’s Day
October 10:
World Mental Health Day
October 13:
Breast Cancer Awareness Day
October 15:
World Students’ Day
October 16:
World Food Day
October 20
Philippine-British Friendship Day
October 23
Lung Health Day
October 24
World Polio Day
October 25
Anniversary of Philippine Military Academy
October 27
Masskara Festival (Bacolod)
October 29
World Stroke Day
October 31
World Savings Day
