A few articles have been written about the vanishing Cavinti traditions like the “harana” and the “pamitin.” But, how about starting a new one? Why don’t we organize a Cavinti Ball?

Ballroom dancing

Every year, in different parts of the world, outside Cavinti, Cavintinians around the world celebrate the town fiesta, the feast of The Transfiguration. Held during a weekend around August 6, the fiesta is arguably the biggest get-together event of the year for the Cavinti diaspora living in one geographical area.

Festivities include the church service, a picnic and of course, the ‘sayawan’. It is the ‘sayawan’ that the idea of the Cavinti Ball came. The event will also have dinner and dancing with the added attraction of introducing the debutantes and the new arrivals.

Though debutantes traditionally refer to females, we can use some journalistic license and actually use the event to introduce all the young people, whether male or female who are coming of age the year of the event. Traditionally and legally, 18 is the coming of age, but the community can actually choose what age they want the young kids to be presented.

Perhaps, you are asking, why do this?

Because, our young people are our future; we lead very busy lives and our community only see each other during special occasions. The best way to introduce our children to the community and of course to each other is via a special event like the proposed Cavinti Ball.

Everyone will dress up, dance the cotillion or any of the ballroom dances and be formally introduce to society, like the old days. A little quaint perhaps, but it will bring our whole community together. It also gives everyone an excuse, for both young and old to dance the night away.

Cavintinians are already organized in different parts of North America. The leaders of each organization can easily put this idea to vote to the community. If the community agrees, then the Cavinti fiesta celebration will have another highlight.

Tell the community what you think. Click on the ‘Leave a Comment’ link below the title of the article and express your opinion.

[MARI OBLENA DAVIS]