"The colorful, multi-faceted Pampanga" Top 5 Page for this destination Province of Pampanga by Yla

The capital of the Province of Pampanga is the City of San Fernando and is the regional seat of government in Central Luzon.

Every December, spectators get to marvel at 20 feet or more giant lanterns playing its up-to 5000 lights precisely with the rhythm of an accompaning brass band. A competition of San Fernando's entrepreneurs in the lantern-making industry, this tradition actually introduced new innovations and design intricacies in the industry,. This resulted to unparalled and magnificent display of Fernandino artistry, and the internationally renowned 'gawang-San Fernando' (Made in San Fernando) lanterns that lights homes globally at Christmas-time.

Hot Air Balloon Festival

Pampanga is especially known for the Hot Air Balloon Festival held annually in February. Having the largest expat community north of Manila, its no wonder, all nationalities congregate at Clarkfield for this exciting event, with events starting 5:30AM onwards.

Enjoy a full-packed day of aerial plane demonstrations, sky-diving, kite-flying, RC plane exhibitions, ultra/micro light flying and plane fly-bys and fly-ins.

For family fun, there are carnival rides, and picnic shades for lunch and snacks and play, the more adult individuals can enjoy the region's much lauded culinary specialties. There is a flea market as well to keep everyone busy getting souvenir caps, trinkets, tshirts and kites. Towards the end of the day, plays of light enliven the event with performers and rock bands playing through the night.

For current events on what's happening in the Province of Pampanga, check out -- http://www.pampanga-online.com/

Salakot greeting visitors to Angeles City

Angeles City is a colorful city teeming with nightlife, east meets west cuisine and the center of entertainment not just in Pampanga but of the Central Luzon region. Angeles City is the birthplace of the best sisig on the land!

(See my travel pages on 'Angeles City' for more details of this motley city)