Province of Pampanga Things to Do
Avoid the hectic pace of metro Manila and visit Pampanga instead. Out in the provinces, life moves at a more manageable speed, yet there are still many things for visitors to see and do.
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Explore the Religious Side of The Philippines
The churches and cathedrals are fine examples of colonial-era architecture. There are many religious sites to choose from, and one of the most popular is Lubao Church, which is the oldest operating churches in Asia.
Another very popular Catholic church is the San Guillermo Parish in Bacolor. The pink stone facade and dome makes an inspiring stop for both the religious and the non-religious. The partial burial of this church in the 1991 eruption of Mount Pinatubo makes this site an even more interesting place to visit.
Take a Hike
After the eruption of Mount Pinatubo, which drove the Americans out of Clark Air Force Base, many visitors have made the hike up the mountain to view the crater lake. The hike takes around 6 hours, and departs from Sta Juliana, Tarlac. Guide tours are available from the starting point, and it is possible to hire 4X4 vehicles to take you halfway to the top of the mountain. Visitors attempting the hike should bring plenty of water and food, as well as wear hats and sunscreen for protection from the sun.
Be Transported in New Ways
Each February, at Clark Field Special Economic Zone in Angeles City, enthusiasts hold the Hot Air Balloon Festival. Locals and tourists from all over the world arrive to take part in this four-day event. Visitors can watch the hot air balloons, take a ride, fly radio-controlled planes or kites, and even try skydiving. Tickets to attend the event are available at the gate, or in advance at any SM Ticketnet outlet.
Tourists, who prefer being out on the water to flying in the air, will want to visit the Lakeshore Residential Estates Country Club. The Country Club is open to the public and rents row boats and radio-controlled sailboats. The Country Club also offers four-wheeled bicycles which tourists may use to explore the area.
Spend a Christmas in Pampanga, Filipino-Style
Visiting Pampanga during the Christmas season offers many special events for tourists. Besides checking out the latest fashions and trends at SM Clark mall, tourists won’t want to miss the Lantern Festival, which is held behind the mall. As night falls, gigantic lanterns, covered in sycnchronized lights, brighten up the sky. The locals are very proud of their lanterns, and have the record for “The World’s Largest Lantern”.
More from SmarterTravel:
- Manila Travel Guide
- Manila Things To Do – Attractions & Must See
- Tips on Manila Warnings or Dangers – Stay Safe!
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Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Pampanga, The Philippines.
We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
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