Every September, the City of Naga comes alive with devotion, tradition, and celebration as it hosts the Peñafrancia Festival, the biggest Marian event in Asia. Pilgrims, tourists, and devotees from around the world gather to honor Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia (Ina), the beloved Patroness of Bicolandia.
For 2025, the festival promises a grand lineup of religious activities, cultural showcases, and community events that reflect both faith and festivity. Whether you are a first-time pilgrim or a seasoned attendee, this guide will help you navigate the schedule, understand the history, and make the most out of your Peñafrancia experience.
A Brief History of Peñafrancia Festival
The devotion to Our Lady of Peñafrancia dates back to the early 18th century, when Fr. Miguel Robles de Covarrubias, a Spanish priest from Naga, brought the devotion from Spain to the Philippines. Inspired by miracles attributed to Ina, the devotion grew rapidly, becoming a symbol of faith, healing, and unity for Bicolanos.
The highlight of the festival is the Traslacion Procession and the Fluvial Procession, where Ina’s image is transferred and later returned via a solemn river procession—a tradition that has drawn millions of devotees throughout the centuries. Today, it is both a deeply religious celebration and a cultural showcase of the Bicolano spirit.
Schedule of Activities – Peñafrancia Festival 2025
Here’s the day-to-day guide to the major events this September:
September 2025
Sept 2 (Tue) – Transfer of Divino Rostro
Sept 3 (Wed) – Harubay (Traditional Street Presentation)
Sept 3 (Wed) – Miss Bicolandia Welcome Dinner & Press Presentation
Sept 6 (Sat) – CTP-MAPEH-DRRM Exhibition Competition
Sept 6 (Sat) – Miss Bicolandia Swimsuit & Long Gown Competition
Sept 7 (Sun) – Peñafrancia Marathon
Sept 8 (Mon) – Miss Bicolandia City Hall Visit & Flag Ceremony
Sept 10 (Wed) – Miss Bicolandia Coronation Night
Sept 11–22 – Bishop Francisco Gainza Trade Fair (Robinsons Naga)
Sept 11 (Thu) – Miss Gay Bicolandia Coronation Night
Sept 12 (Fri, 12NN) – Traslacion Procession
Sept 13–14 – Marian Youth Congress
Sept 13–14 (9 PM) – Marian Procession & Healing Prayer with the Manto of Ina
Sept 14 (Sun, 4 AM) – South Star Drug Run for Wellness
Sept 15–17 (8 PM) – Marian Procession & Healing Prayer with the Manto of Ina
Sept 15–17 (10 PM) – Perdon Procession with the Divino Rostro
Sept 16 (Tue, 6 PM) – Tagboan Music, Arts & Gastronomy Fest Opening
Sept 17 (Wed, 7 AM) – Scouts Parade & DXMC Competition
Sept 17 (Wed, 6 PM) – Balaog: Mga Awit para kay Maria
Sept 18 (Thu, 7 AM) – Civic & Float Parade
Sept 18 (Thu, 2 PM) – Voyadores Street & Pilgrims Dance Competition
Sept 18–20 (3:30 AM) – Dawn Processions with Ina & Divino Rostro
Sept 18–19 (9 PM) – Marian Procession & Healing Prayer
Sept 19 (Fri, 7 AM) – Bicol Regional Military Parade & Exhibition Competition
Sept 20 (Sat, 3 PM) – Peñafrancia Fluvial Procession (Naga River)
Sept 20 (Sat, 6 PM) – Tagboan Music, Arts & Gastronomy Fest (Day 5)
Sept 21 (Sun, 4:30 AM) – Solemnity of Our Lady of Peñafrancia
Tips for Attending Peñafrancia Festival 2025
Plan Early – Expect heavy traffic and fully booked accommodations. Reserve your hotel weeks in advance.
Wear Comfortable Clothing – The weather can be hot and humid. Bring light clothing and an umbrella for sun or rain.
Stay Hydrated & Bring Snacks – Crowds can be dense, so carrying water and light food is a must.
Secure Your Belongings – Pickpockets can take advantage of crowded events. Use a secure bag.
Join with Respect – Remember, this is foremost a religious celebration. Respect the solemnity of processions.
Support Local – Don’t miss Bicol’s culinary specialties and buy pasalubong like kinalas, pili nuts, and native crafts.
Be Early for Major Events – Especially the Traslacion and Fluvial Procession, which draw millions of devotees.
The Peñafrancia Festival 2025 is more than just a cultural highlight. It is a celebration of faith, resilience, and unity. With centuries-old traditions blending with modern festivities, it continues to inspire devotion not only among Bicolanos but also among Filipinos worldwide.
As we honor Ina, may this year’s festivities remind us to keep our faith strong, preserve our culture, and take care of our rivers and environment, ensuring that future generations can continue this sacred tradition.