Preparations for the annual town fiesta of Santa Rita were officially launched on March 16, 2026, during the municipality’s regular flag-raising ceremony held in front of the Municipal Hall, highlighting the strong partnership between the local government and the community.
The Local Government Unit (LGU), led by Mayor Reynan S. Calo, serves as this year’s committee-in-charge of the festivities, with the Vice Mayor, members of the Sangguniang Bayan, and department heads taking active roles as organizers.
Carrying the theme “Pamagpuge da reng Ritenians kang Apung Dita, Simbulu’t Tetagan ning Bayung Santa Rita,” the celebration focuses on offering thanksgiving to the town’s patron saint, Santa Rita de Cascia. This year’s fiesta also holds special significance as it coincides with the 300th anniversary of the founding of the Parish Church of Santa Rita.
Aligned with Mayor Calo’s vision of positioning Santa Rita as a recognized agritourism and heritage lifestyle hub, the fiesta program features a range of cultural and community activities designed to encourage active participation from residents. Barangay chairpersons and members of the Sangguniang Kabataan are expected to take part in organizing and mobilizing their respective communities.
Mayor Calo also encouraged local leaders to engage the private sector in supporting the celebration.
“We encouraged our officials and local leaders to invite the private sector to be involved in our activities,” Calo said, noting that under his “Bayung Santa Rita” development framework, the goal is to make each fiesta activity more meaningful and enjoyable for residents and visitors alike.
Among the inter-barangay competitions lined up for the celebration are a basketball tournament, a Zumba competition, and the Mutya at Ginoo ning Santa Rita pageant. Traditional fiesta activities will also return, including the Bingo Socials, Grand Raffle, and the Ritenian Homecoming Ball, which welcomes balikbayans and former residents.
A major highlight of the festivities is the Putiucan Festival, an interpretative street dance dedicated to “Apung Dita,” the Kapampangan term of endearment for Saint Rita. The dance is inspired by symbols associated with the saint, particularly roses and bees. The festival is also open to participants from outside the municipality.
The municipal government likewise pledged its support to parish-led religious activities, including the Grand Marian Procession and the Visit of the Pilgrim Image of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag.
All fiesta activities are scheduled throughout the month of May and will culminate on May 22, the feast day of Saint Rita de Cascia.
