Ati – Atihan Festival

This is an ancient tradition that celebrates the people of Aklan with indigenous origins, eventually honoring the Infant Jesus, Señor Santo Niño. Today, the Ati-Atihan is observed in modern times as a festival dedicated to the Child Jesus.

The term “Ati-Atihan” means “merry-making like the Ati,” referring to becoming like the aboriginal natives who are considered the first inhabitants of Aklan and the entire Western Visayas region. Participants smear themselves with soot to darken their skin and dress in tribal finery, complete with the festival’s iconic tasseled headdresses.

The procession begins with the vibrant beat of drums and prominent whistles, later punctuated by energetic shouts of “Hala Bira!” followed by “Viva kay Señor Santo Niño!”