What is ati ati han?

Ati-Atihan is a popular festival that takes place in the town of Kalibo, Aklan in the Philippines. It is celebrated on the third week of January every year and is considered as one of the oldest and most colorful festivals in the country.

The festival originated from the Malay settlement in Aklan and was said to have been influenced by the arrival of the Santo Niño (Child Jesus) from Cebu. Ati-Atihan means "to be like Atis," which refers to the native Aeta people who were the original inhabitants of the island of Panay.

The festival is marked with street dancing, parades, and lively music played on native instruments like drums, tambourines, and trumpets. The participants are usually dressed in colorful costumes, with their faces painted black to mimic the Atis.

The highlight of the festival is the "sadsad" or street dancing competition, where groups of performers dance to the beat of the drums while chanting "Hala Bira!" and "Viva Kay Señor Sto. Niño!"

Through the years, Ati-Atihan has become a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world who are fascinated by its unique cultural heritage and vibrant celebrations.