14th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Travel
Feast of the Black Nazarene

Every 9th of January, Filipinos celebrate the Feast of the Black Nazarene in Manila. The image of the Black Nazarene which is inside the Quiapo Church, Manila will be placed in Quirino Grandstand for the "Pahalik sa Paa" or kiss in the foot of the Black Nazarene a day before the feast. On the day of the feast, the image of the Black Nazarene will be brought back to Quiapo Church through a procession. An estimated one million devotees from all around the country will gather in the streets on Manila or in the route area, bare footed, to at least, see the image of the Black Nazarene or attempt to get closer and climb up in the float to wipe a handkerchief or a towel. Every year, several casualties happen like getting injured, fainting or even death. But still, many Filipinos attend the feast to show their faith.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 01.2016
Date Uploaded: 11.2016
Photo Location: Manila, Philippines
Copyright: © Heigen Villacarlos