Memorial Day and Wattah Wattah Festival – Traditional Events of Community Solidarity

May 21, 2025 – Memorial Day in the United States is a loving remembrance of those who defended our freedoms. Many mourn and celebrate the lives of our own family members whom sacrificed their lives on the battlefield. It is a day of unity for all in our nation.

There are many traditional annual events internationally that also commemorate freedom, community, heritage and culture. One of our favorite events centers around the joy of water held each year in the Philippines. How can we not like a festival called Wattah Wattah! The 2025 festival will occur this coming June.

Wattah! Wattah! Festival is a huge public soaking of the gathered crowds in the street and is an expression of community solidarity. Toy pump gun for water fights are dwarfed by actual fire truck hoses used to blast water into the air raining onto the celebratory festival goers.  This article states … “The name ‘Wattah Wattah’ itself is a playful take on ‘water,’ reflecting the jovial and light-hearted nature of the festival.” We love that summation since Watt-Ahh also has a joyous side but it may not be used to drench a happy crowd!

We wish everyone a good and meaningful holiday today. Be safe, stay hydrated and take a plunge in a cool pool in celebration of Wattah Wattah! … a true celebration of both water and community.

Photo credit to Facebook photo album.