Brighten your home with the Pahiyas Festival spirit

The Pahiyas Festival, a vibrant and colorful celebration, is one of the Philippines’ most cherished cultural events. Traditionally held in Lucban, Quezon, it is a day when homes are adorned with fruits, vegetables, and kiping, transforming the town into a breathtaking display of gratitude and creativity. But even if you can’t make it to Lucban, you can still bring the spirit of Pahiyas into your living space with creative ideas and our delightful range of decors and dinnerware.

IKEA festival illustration of people singing

A season of bounty harvest and vivid hues

Every May 15th, Lucban comes alive with the Pahiyas Festival, a tribute to harvest bounty and a homage to San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers. The streets are lined with houses decked out in elaborate decorations made from agricultural produce and kiping, a leaf-shaped wafer made from rice and colored with food coloring, which makes a stunning visual feast.

Originating from the word ‘payas,’ which means to decorate, Pahiyas has roots going back to the 15th century. Initially, it began as a religious practice where farmers would offer their harvests at the church to be blessed by the parish priest, thanking divine providence for their abundant yield. As the years passed and the produce became too plentiful, the offerings were instead displayed outside homes. This practice is believed to protect the townspeople from misfortune and ensure continued prosperity.

The local community values maintaining this tradition as it’s believed to protect the town from hardship and misfortune. In May 1963, the festival evolved from its pagan roots into the vibrant, grand celebration known across the Philippines today. With competitions for the most creatively decorated house, alongside cultural shows, contests, parades, and exhibits, the festival significantly enhances Lucban’s tourism. This transformation was spearheaded by Fernando Cadeliña Nañawa, the founder and president of the Art Club of Lucban.

During Pahiyas, every household competes to out-decorate each other with the most elaborate and creative designs, using natural materials and recyclable items, showcasing incredible ingenuity and craftsmanship. Vibrant parades, cultural dances, and the warm hospitality of the Lucban locals also mark the festival.

Celebrating the festival without leaving your doorstep

You might not be able to travel to Lucban, but you can certainly recreate the festive atmosphere at home. Here’s how to enhance the festival experience:

Spruce up your home with different decorations

Begin by decorating your home in the spirit of Pahiyas.

Use artificial potted plants to add greenery around your home, mimicking the lush landscapes of Lucban. These low-maintenance plants bring a touch of nature’s freshness without any upkeep, enhancing your decor with their vibrant, life-like appearance. Perfect for any corner, they set the stage for a festive atmosphere that celebrates the richness of the Pahiyas Festival.

Brighten spaces with colorful flowers, perfect for creating your kiping-inspired décor without the worry of wilting. These vibrant, artificial blooms add a festive touch to any room, ensuring the festival spirit shines brightly throughout your home. Easy to arrange and lasting year-round, they bring the essence of Pahiyas into everyday living.

For a rustic, natural touch to your decor, set your tables with placemats that complement the festival’s earthy themes. These placemats not only protect your surfaces but also serve as a foundation for creating a festive tablescape that echoes the vibrancy of Pahiyas.

Dine together with family and friends

Festivals won’t be complete without a meal shared between loved ones.

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Serve your festive feast with the elegant FÄRGKLAR dinnerware. Its clean and classic look complements any celebratory meal.

Present your dishes with flair with the FULLSPÄCKAD serving tray. The sturdy handle easily carries plates, glasses, snacks, and appetizers on two levels. The tray’s bamboo and black accents also bring a modern yet earthy feel to your table.

And there’s no need to worry if you have many guests! Accommodate extra seating with the KYRRE stackable stools, ensuring everyone has a seat at your festive gathering without taking up too much space.

By weaving these elements into the fabric of your home, you bring the vibrant essence of the Pahiyas Festival into your everyday life. Enjoy celebrating with family and friends in a space that echoes the festival's joyous spirit, creating cherished memories and new traditions without leaving your doorstep.

Brighten your home with the Pahiyas Festival spirit

A season of bounty harvest and vivid hues

Celebrating the festival without leaving your doorstep

Spruce up your home with different decorations

Dine together with family and friends

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