Baguio City welcomed February 2026 with cool weather and a warm turnout of visitors as the month-long Panagbenga Festival opened officially, drawing large crowds for the start of its 30th year of celebrations.

Tourists lined Session Road and Harrison Road on the opening day to watch parades and performances marking the launch of the annual flower festival. Six school contingents staged drum and lyre and street dancing field demonstrations at the Melvin Jones Football Ground, showcasing Cordilleran culture and tradition.

“Anim ’yan, isa sa Pugo outside Benguet, and also may tatlo outside Baguio City, and ’yung iba ay dito na sa Baguio City,” Andrew Pinero, spokesperson of the Baguio Flower Festival Foundation Inc. (BFFFI), said referring to the participating groups.

Visitors welcomed the festive atmosphere despite the crowds.

“Ang saya-saya, maganda. Maraming tao dito. Nanood kami sa opening sa parada, masaya,” Mary Flor Agustin, a tourist, said.

“Palaging masaya dito. ’Yung malamig ang panahon, ’yun ang isa sa pinupuntahan namin,” Jovie Sundiam, another visitor, added.

After the performances, tourists moved on to Burnham Park for the market encounter, where local food, affordable souvenirs and flower and plant displays were featured. The Panagbenga Escapes exhibit highlighted Cordilleran-themed landscapes that drew steady foot traffic.

This year’s festival carries the theme “Blooming Without End,” which organizers said reflects the lasting spirit of the event beyond the season.

“Under the theme ‘Blooming Without End,’ we declare that Panagbenga does not end with the season. It blooms in our memories, in our unity, and in our unwavering resolve to rise in March together again and again,” BFFFI chairman-for-life Mauricio Domogan said.

Organizers said more activities are lined up in the coming days as the festival continues through the month.