They can be marked by Holy Masses, processions, parades, theatrical play and reenactments, religious or cultural rituals, trade fairs, exhibits, concerts, pageants and various games and contests. Several of these are held to honor the local Roman Catholic patron saint, to commemorate local history and culture, to promote the communitys products, or to celebrate a bountiful harvest. Originally encouraged by the Spanish to coincide with Christian holy days, early patronal festivals became vital instruments in spreading Christianity throughout the country. The origin of most early fiestas are rooted in Christianity, dating back to the Spanish colonial period when the many communities (such as barrios and towns) of the predominantly Catholic Philippines almost always had a patron saint assigned to each of them.
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