Ilocos Norte’s capital, Laoag City, is known as the Sunshine City because Laoag or “lawag” means “light” in Ilokano.

That is why this year’s Pamulinawen Festival carries the theme “Shine Laoag” – fitting for the festivities that will highlight the culture, history, and famous destinations in the city this February.

The month-long festivities will kick off on Feb. 1, with a military parade followed by the Panagyaman (Thanksgiving) Concert at the Aurora Park.

On Feb. 2, the city government will spearhead the launching of the Agro-Industrial Fair at Laoag Central Elementary School.

The fair will showcase local-produced products including furniture, home decorations, plants, fresh produce, and other processed food products.

Decorated kalesas or horse-drawn carriages will also take the center stage during the Calesa Parade on February 8 in front of the Provincial Capitol.

On Feb. 9, the city will stage the awaited Pamulinawen Grand Parade and float competition contest which will be joined by barangays, government agencies and offices, business establishments, and some schools in the city.

Ilokano culture and history will also be told in the form of dance at the Na-Laoag Street Dance Parade on Feb. 10.

Ten clustered competitors composed of the city’s 80 barangays will compete for the dance championship title.

To showcase the beauty and wit of the people in the city, the Miss Laoag Pamulinawen 2024 and Mister Laoag pageant on Feb. 11 and 13, respectively, will be staged.

City tourism officer Angel Lao said this year’s Miss Laoag Pamulinawen will stage a pre-pageant presentation on Feb. 5.

“A Miss Pamulinawen is strong, confident, resilient, and in any adversity, they rise up. For this year’s edition, we are looking for the girl who will shine the brightest and the Pamulinawen that we celebrate every year,” she added.

The Pamulinawen MMK Motor-Show, scheduled on Feb. 24 will surely peak the interest of motorcycle enthusiasts.

On the same day, the fluvial parade celebrating the Feast of St. William the Hermit, the city’s patron saint, will start from Metro Gabu to Metro Lapaz via boat ride.

Moreover, runners will surely appreciate the second installment of the Pamulinawen Sand Dunes running challenge at Barangay La Paz on Feb. 25.

The festival will culminate with a Mayor's Night at Aurora Park on Feb. 29.

A carnival featuring various rides and fun activities also opened at the open area near the Gilbert bridge to provide entertainment to locals and tourists.

The City Tourism office promises that this year’s celebration, Laoag City’s culture, history, and developments will be the center of the festivities to live up to the theme “Shine Laoag.” (JCR/MJTAB/EJFG, PIA Ilocos Norte)