The Paraw Regatta is an annual sailing event held in the Philippine province of Iloilo, specifically at Tatoy’s Manokan, Sto. Nino Sur, Villa, Iloilo City. It is a popular tourist attraction and is known for its colorful and ornately decorated sailboats, called “paraws,” which are native to the Visayan region of the Philippines.
The Paraw Regatta typically takes place on the third weekend of February each year and lasts for three days. During the event, teams of sailors from different towns and cities across the region compete in races using traditional paraw sailboats. The races are divided into various categories based on the size and type of the paraw, and the winners are awarded prizes and trophies.
The 2023 Paraw Regatta Festival is scheduled to take place from March 12-19, and it is a three-day event that showcases the skills of sailors from different towns and cities across the region. Teams compete in races using traditional paraw sailboats, which are divided into categories based on their size and type. The races are followed by a variety of cultural and entertainment activities, including traditional music and dance performances, food stalls offering local delicacies, and a parade of decorated sailboats.
The paraw is a type of double-outrigger sailboat that is traditionally used for fishing and transportation in the Visayan region. It is characterized by its long and narrow hull, which is supported by two outriggers, and its distinctive “batwing” sail. The sail is made of woven bamboo strips and is attached to a bamboo spar that is supported by two bamboo poles, one on each side of the boat. The paraw is a simple yet effective design that has been used in the region for centuries.
In addition to the sailing races, the Paraw Regatta also features a variety of cultural and entertainment activities. These may include traditional music and dance performances, food stalls offering local delicacies, and a parade of decorated sailboats. The parade is a highlight of the event, as it showcases the creativity and craftsmanship of the paraw makers and sailboat decorators. The sailboats are adorned with colorful streamers, lanterns, and other decorations, making them a sight to behold.
The Paraw Regatta is a beloved and iconic event in the Visayan region, and it draws thousands of visitors each year who come to witness the spectacle of the colorful sailboats and experience the rich cultural traditions of the area. It is a celebration of the region’s maritime history and traditions and helps preserve the art of paraw-making and sailing for future generations.
If you’re planning a visit Iloilo, be sure to check out the Paraw Regatta. It’s a unique and unforgettable experience that will give you a glimpse into the area’s rich cultural heritage.
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