Pulilan Kneeling Carabao Festival
SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES FOR PULILAN KNEELING CARABAO FESTIVAL
Contents
The festivity happens every May of each year. Please stay tuned for the updated schedule of activities.
ABOUT PULILAN KNEELING CARABAO
Farming is one of the noblest occupations available in our country. The hardworking farmers wholeheartedly shed out their sweats and tears to make sure that they have a bountiful harvest. Though they earn from it, it is also essential to recognize that they do this to provide food in our table for us to have something to consume. Though several farmers nowadays make use of the advanced technology of planting and harvesting rice, we cannot still deny the fact that the majority of the farmers in the country even make it possible through the help of the water buffalos or locally known as carabaos. Yes, the ever hardworking carabaos.
With the great importance that these carabaos play in the lives of farmers and our lives in general, it is no wonder that there are places in the country that gives great importance to the contribution of the carabaos. Thus, the birth of the Pulilan Kneeling Carabao Festival every May in the province of Pulilan Bulacan. Other places such as Nueva Ecija and Rizal also has the same celebration. But in Bulacan, they do it to honor the contribution of the carabaos, and at the same time, as a thanksgiving for the bountiful harvest to their patron saint, San Isidro Labrador. But what is in store for us in witnessing such festivity?
PULILAN KNEELING CARABAO FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS
- Kneeling of the Carabaos
Yes, you’ve read it right. Kneeling of the carabaos entails that they are supposed to line up and give the best kneeling pose. Whoever gets the perfect and the most sophisticated kneeling pose will be hailed as the winner. Though it may sound reasonable for others, getting to witness the actual event is both exciting and fascinating. The close tie between the owner and the carabao can be seen in how they interact with each other, using the acts and language that only the two could understand.
- Carabao Parade
During the Pulilan Kneeling Carabo Festival, owners will bring their carabaos to the nearby river and clean them to the fullest. This entails rubbing their skin and their horns with water than oil to make them look shiny. Then, they are decorated with flowers and ribbons and other decorative materials. When they are fully ready, they are brought to a parade where everyone could see them. They will be delivered to the church square, where proper blessings from the church will be given when the carabaos are already kneeling. Thus, the high-class treatment and pampering given to these friendly companions are just adorable to behold.
- Friendly Approach
People had the misconception that there is maltreatment with the way owners force the carabaos to kneel. The thing is, there is already a deep connection between the owner and the carabao. So, with just a word or a gentle pat of the owner, the carabao willfully kneels. The years of friendship and togetherness of the owner and the carabao is seen in this beautiful collaboration.
If you are looking for a unique and, at the same time, a fun festival to witness, then heading to Bulacan and taking part in the kneeling carabao festival is a good idea. I know that as you see this event, you cannot help but to feel delighted and filled with genuine admiration.