EVENTS / FESTIVALS

🎭 Festivals & Cultural Events in Saipan, Rota & Tinian

The Northern Mariana Islands host a rich tapestry of festivals year-round, celebrating local culture, history, and community spirit. Each island offers unique events that provide visitors with immersive experiences.

🌺 Saipan

  • Xterra Saipan (March): A thrilling celebration of multisport excellence, showcasing athletes' endurance and skill in a challenging triathlon event, accompanied by stunning island scenery and electric atmosphere.

  • Flame Tree Arts Festival (April): Held annually at the Garapan Fishing Base, this is the CNMI's longest-running arts and culture festival. The 2024 event featured over 35 artisans, numerous food vendors, and performances from more than 40 groups, including representatives from the Northern Marianas delegation to the Festival of Pacific Arts and Culture.

  • Taste of the Marianas International Food Festival (May): A month-long celebration showcasing the islands' diverse culinary offerings, accompanied by live entertainment and cultural performances.

  • Marianas March Against Cancer (May): A community-driven event aimed at raising awareness and funds for cancer research and support.

  • Saipan Liberation Day Parade (July): Commemorates the liberation of Saipan during World War II with a parade featuring floats, cultural dances, and military honors.

  • Saipan Agricultural Fair (June): An annual event promoting local food production and supporting community initiatives. The fair features competitions in plant and animal categories, with entries judged based on quality and presentation. It also includes educational exhibits, cultural performances, and activities for all ages.

🌴 Rota

  • San Isidro Fiesta (May): Celebrated in Sinapalo village, this fiesta honors San Isidro, the patron saint of farmers. The event includes religious ceremonies, cultural performances, and communal feasting.

  • San Francisco de Borja Fiesta (October): Known locally as "Bisita Luta," this is Rota's largest religious and cultural celebration, honoring the island's patron saint. Activities include Mass, processions, traditional music, dance, and local cuisine.

  • Rota Coconut Festival: A celebration of the coconut's significance in island life, featuring coconut-themed contests, cooking demonstrations, and cultural exhibits.

  • Gilita Chamorro Festival (May): A three-day event highlighting Chamorro traditions through educational and cultural activities, offering visitors insights into local customs and practices.

🏝️ Tinian

  • Beef, Beer, and Bands (BBB) Festival (July): A lively event celebrating Tinian's cattle industry with local beef dishes, craft beers, and live music performances.

  • Gineptin Ha’ånen Taga Festival (October): A cultural festival honoring the legendary Chief Taga, featuring traditional dances, storytelling, and community gatherings.

  • Hot Pepper “Pika” Festival (February): Celebrated annually during the month of February, the Tinian Hot Pepper Festival, commonly known as the “Pika Festival,” pays homage to Tinian’s local “donni sali” hot pepper. The festival features a variety of local food and craft vendors, live entertainment, games, and competitions such as the PIKA burger eating contest, katdun pika cook-off, and a male and female hot pepper eating competition. 

  • San Jose Fiesta: A religious and cultural celebration honoring Saint Joseph, featuring Mass, processions, and communal festivities.


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