Renowned for its cultural heritage, beautiful natural attractions, and proximity to the capital of Manila, Antipolo is a favorite summer getaway for those who live in the Metro. Reachable in an hour or two, the city sits on the slopes of the mountain range of the Sierra Madre, offering beautiful views of the capital, making it an elevated space for city dwellers.
During May, Antipolo comes alive with festivities, attracting thousands of visitors for pilgrimages and cultural events, and its natural beauty during the last few weeks of the dry season.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to the best celebrations in Antipolo this month and a few of the top tourist spots you can visit as side trips.
Festivities in Antipolo During May
1. Sumakah Festival – May 1
Celebrating the city’s proud local produce, the name “Sumakah” is a playful combination of these products, which are: “SUman” (rice cake), “MAnga” (mango), “KAsoy” (cashew nuts), and “Hamakah” (hammocks).
Held on May 1, the lively celebration included street dancing, markets, parades, and traditional dance performances that showcase the city’s rich agricultural heritage.
2. Ahunan Pilgrimage – May to July
Antipolo is often called “The Pilgrimage Capital of the Philippines,” with religious roots in the 1500s. During Holy Week, thousands flock to the city to gather at the Antipolo Cathedral, participating in religious activities and traditions.
From May to July, Antipolo transforms into a spiritual hub for visitors who visit the International Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage. Known as “Ahunan,” which means “to ascend,” or “go up a hill”, the pilgrimage season starts on the first Tuesday of May. The beginning of the pilgrimage is commemorated with a grand procession of the Black Madonna image, starting from the Antipolo Cathedral to Pinagmisahan Hill, a 13 km walk.
3. All of May: Santacruzan
One of the most festive celebrations in Antipolo and the highlight of Flores de Mayo, the Santacruzan festival is a month-long festival, filling the city with floral decorations and arches. It is celebrated in homage of the Virgin Mary and the search for the True Cross by Reyna Elena, a revered figure in Filipino Catholic traditions. With the city’s rich Marian heritage centered on Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage, Santacruzan is a significant event in Antipolo, where religious-historical pageantry takes place, featuring a procession of young women donned in beautiful, elegant gowns, representing historical and Biblical figures.
Related article: Must-see Festivals in the Philippines
Top “Side Trips” You Can Do During These Festivals
Aside from participating in and witnessing the festivities above, visitors can take “side trips” to Antipolo’s popular tourist sites and indulge in local activities for a fun-filled holiday. Here are some of the city’s favorite “side trips.”
1. Hinulugang Taktak Protected Landscape
Antipolo’s iconic waterfalls, the Hinulugang Taktak Protected Landscape, are a protected area offering a beautiful escape into nature. Visitors can enjoy picnics, immerse themselves in the lovely atmosphere, and swim in a pool for a fun-filled family day in nature.
2. Pinto Art Museum
The Pinto Art Museum was founded by Dr. Joven Cuanang in 2010, featuring a museum showcasing Filipino artists’ work. It is a contemporary art experience set within a lush botanical garden. It is often the backdrop of many social media posts for its gorgeous Mediterranean architecture, blending seamlessly with its natural surroundings. An arboretum is also found within the complex grounds, as the museum sits within the two-hectare Silangan Gardens.
Related article: 8 Instagram-Perfect Locations Across the Philippines
3. Mount Purro
Mount Purro Nature Reserve is a family-owned eco-park offering nature trails, camping sites, and environmental education programs. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and families seeking an escape into the wilderness. As a nature reserve located a stone’s throw away from Antipolo, it is a much-needed oasis from the frantic pace of Metro Manila.
4. Luljetta’s Place
Luljetta’s Hanging Gardens and Spa is nestled on the mountainside and presents a unique mix of relaxation and adventure. One of the best wellness resorts in the country, guests can enjoy spa treatments, infinity pools, and hanging gardens with panoramic views of Antipolo and beyond.
BONUS: Cafe-Hopping in Antipolo
With gorgeous views, a location on the slopes of the Sierra Madre, and a rich cultural heritage, it’s no wonder Antipolo is home to many coffee shops featuring aesthetic vibes and great drinks. One of the many favorite activities to do in the city is café hopping, and here are two of the top places to visit:
1. Kapinta Coffee, Tea, and Tattoo
A creative space where patrons can enjoy coffee and tea while exploring tattoo art. The café also features an artists’ corner, making it a hub for local creatives.
2. Burrow Café
Located beneath the Antipolo Beehouse, Burrow Café is accessed through a short staircase leading to an underground dining area surrounded by forest views. Known for its seasonal menus, the café serves dishes like their crowd-favorite slow-roasted lechon belly and blue pea flower pasta. It’s also eco-conscious, sourcing local ingredients and minimizing waste wherever possible.
3. Yellow Bird Café x Kitchen
This casual spot offers hearty comfort food and excellent coffee in a bright and airy setting. Yellow Bird is popular for its breakfast plates, honey bacon slabs, and signature lattes. It also features large windows and al fresco seating, making it an easy favorite for brunch dates and weekend get-togethers.
4. Café Agusta
What sets Café Agusta apart is its sweeping view of Metro Manila, especially striking at sunset. It offers a mix of coffee, comfort food, and full-course meals, making it suitable for both casual afternoon visits and evening dinners. Their creamy truffle pasta and iced café mocha are highly recommended.
5. Seisha Coffee
Seisha brings a modern touch to the Antipolo café scene with its glass-panel walls, clean design, and vibrant outdoor space. Their signature cold brews and specialty blends pair well with their savory all-day brunch items and shisha. It’s a popular stop for both coffee lovers and content creators looking for a photogenic spot.
6. Drip Kofi Antipolo
Known for its minimalist Japanese-inspired interior and a menu offering a variety of beverages and snacks, Drip Kofi provides a cozy atmosphere for relaxation and socializing.
A Meaningful Escape Above the Metro
While its location is enough to entice travelers, Antipolo is more than just a city in the sky. A combination of cultural festivals, natural attractions, a vibrant café scene, and spiritual significance makes it a compelling destination from Metro Manila. Whether you’re seeking a religious journey, a quick escape into nature, or the lively events of its May festivals, it’s clear that Antipolo is an accessible and beautiful escape from the metropolitan area.
–
Featured Image by Tripadvisor
