karakol

Philippines has one of the richest cultures in the world especially in terms of practices related to the predominant Catholic faith.
One practice which Filipinos inherited from Spaniards and continue celebrating up to the present time is the celebrations of fiestas to commemorate the feast days of the patron saints.

All fiestas will have some procession of sorts which would often include festive dancing known as the 'Karakol'.

Karakol is a religious dance procession held at the eve of the feast day of the patron saint of the particular town.Karakol participants would usually include women; It may be seniors, old woman or kids too.

It is said that it's derived from the Spanish word “caracol” which means snail. Some attribute the connection to the slow pace of the procession because of the dancing.

The acknowledged purpose of the 'Karakol' is for thanksgiving for the blessings received and prayer for continued provision of daily needs.

Like the photos above, it is the celebration for the feast day of the patron saint "Sto. Rosario de Malabon" which is held at the first day of January. The local government at the said town made it more fun to people who would participate by making it a contest; Who danced well, have the nicest outfit and the people's choice would be the winner; and will get the cash prize.