Pampanga Day, observed in the province of Pampanga in the Philippines, is celebrated every December 11 as a special non-working holiday to commemorate its founding anniversary. Pampanga, the oldest province on the island of Luzon, was officially established in 1571 and derives its name from the Tagalog word for "riverbank." The celebration typically lasts several days and includes a thanksgiving mass, trade and job fairs, award ceremonies, and various dance and singing competitions. Pampanga is known for its rich culinary heritage, earning it the title of the Culinary Capital of the Philippines, and it is also referred to as the Christmas Capital due to its famous parols, or ornamental Christmas lanterns. The holiday was officially proclaimed by President Ferdinand Marcos in 1982 and reflects the province's historical significance, including its role during the Philippine Revolution and World War II.