Angeles City festivals are colorful and varied, ranging from fun-filled events that revolve around the local air field to local foods, religion and more. Here's a look at the Angeles City festivals that you can observe or participate in throughout the year.

January/February

In January or February of each year is the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. This event lasts for about four days and takes place at the Clark Air Field. Apart from the many hot air balloons that fill the sky (all of which offer rides for USD 150 per person), there are plenty of other competitions. These involve kite flying, remote controlled planes, sky diving, rockets and more.

March/April

Venture to nearby San Fernando to witness the Lenten Rites Festival that occurs over Easter each year. The week before Easter you'll see young men drawing their own blood in penance, but the main event occurs on Good Friday. You can follow the Passion Play through the streets of San Fernando to the end, when a local volunteer is literally nailed to a cross (the same man has been playing the part of Jesus for years). After the play has ended, others can volunteer to be momentarily crucified to show their desire to be forgiven of sins.

October

The last Friday and Saturday of October sees the most energetic of Angeles City festivals, Tigtigan Terakan keng Dalan-the street music festival. Celebrities and locals alike take to the streets of the city for a night of frivolity, music and dancing. The musical groups are both amateur and professional, and always lively. The event lasts well into the wee hours of the morning.

December

Angeles City festivals don't get much more local than the annual Sisig Festival. Celebrated each December, this festival honors the local food sisig, a sour and spicy dish made from bits of pigs heads. It was said to have been invented in Angeles City when the U.S. air base was in full swing. At the time, soldiers at the base would consume large quantities of pork, with the heads going to waste. Locals could therefore purchase the heads for a pittance, and pieces like the ears and jowls were used to create this dish. Today you can visit SM City-Clark to witness the cooking contest and perhaps try a taste for yourself.

Regardless of when you visit Angeles City, you're sure to find the local culture interesting and colorful, but attending any of these festivals will surely add to your trip and leave you with lasting memories.