The sun-kissed shores and culturally rich cities of La Union are abuzz with excitement as they prepare for La Union Surfing Break (LUSB) 2023, which will take place from the 3rd of November to the 5th. This annual celebration has become a cornerstone in the surfing community and a series of events that locals and tourists of La Union look forward to with great anticipation.
As one of the best surfing destinations in the Philippines, La Union’s Surfing Break has grown in stature over the years, evolving from a concept back in 2006 with the primary objective of educating and exposing surfing to the general public. In recent years, many artists and bands, like Reese Lansangan, Over October, Rocksteady, and more, have participated in bringing life to LUSB through a major music festival, usually happening on the last days of the three-day event.
This year, La Union Surfing Break is taking a different approach by focusing on environmental sustainability, eco-friendly tourism, and personal well-being. Organizers of this year’s LUSB have agreed to tone down the event in terms of its ecological footprint by placing a strong emphasis on eco-initiatives and physical activities.
La Union Surfing Break 2023 — Participating Towns and Schedules
Three major municipalities of La Union are participating in La Union Surfing Break 2023, each with its own schedule and leg of events and activities. These towns are Bacnotan, San Juan, and Luna. They are conveniently located close to each other, so it will be accessible for tourists and locals to jump from one town to another if they have events they are enthusiastic to join.
You may visit the official Facebook page of La Union’s Local Government to check the complete list of activities and schedules they have for each participating town. Or click on this link to take you there.
LUSB Major Events, Activities, and Highlights
This year, La Union Surfing Break is all about embracing eco-initiatives, community spirit, and, of course, riding the waves of excitement. It promises a thrilling schedule that spans various towns and beaches in La Union, offering a variety of activities that cater to both surfers and those who seek sun-soaked activities. Here are some major activities and highlights to take note of if you’re planning to attend this year’s LUSB:
Eco Patrol and Coastal Clean-Ups
As mentioned, this year’s Surfing Break is about giving back to the environment for consistently providing the perfect waves. In previous years, people on social media and locals criticized LUSB event organizers and attendees for their poor planning and discipline in maintaining the cleanliness of the venues, which are mostly the beaches and shorelines.
Furthermore, the Eco Patrol and Coastal Clean-Up are integral parts of this year’s event, emphasizing the importance of preserving the pristine beauty of La Union’s beaches. Participants can freely join these initiatives of collecting litter and promoting eco-awareness. It’s a meaningful way to bond with the community and make a positive impact on the environment.
Journey with the Flippers: Pawikan Conservation and Conservation Tour
A highlight for nature lovers, the “Journey with the Flippers” program focuses on Pawikan (sea turtle) conservation. La Union’s coast is a nesting ground for these incredible creatures, and LUSB 2023 provides a unique opportunity to witness the local’s conservation efforts.
Julius Manabat, the Assistant Supervising Tourism Officer of La Union, shared in a recent phone interview with the Philippine News Agency (PNA) that this initiative is an educational campaign designed to inform the public about responsible interactions with wildlife.
“This is to inform tourists on how to keep our beach clean and safe, not just for humans but also for the pawikans so they will not be disturbed as well,” he said.
The Launching of LUSB 2023 Theme
The first day of LUSB 2023 in San Juan will mark the launch of the event’s very own theme song. This musical tribute captures the essence of the event and will undoubtedly become the anthem of the surf-loving community for this year’s Surfing Break. Get ready to groove to the beats and let the music linger in your heart long after the big first day.
Celebrating Local Art and Music
For this year’s La Union Surfing Break, organizers stepped back from inviting nationwide talents. They focused on artists from La Union, like Purple Hail, TagaElyu Band, Even Theory Band, and more. But of course, LUSB will still feature artists from outside the province, with Nobita taking the stage on the second day of the San Juan leg and also drag artist and impersonator Taylor Sheesh to entertain the crowd with her whimsical reimagination of Taylor Swift’s iconic Eras Tour. There will also be a Battle of the Bands competition in the Bacnotan leg for those who want to witness artists in a competitive musical and artistic expression.
Furthermore, La Union Surfing Break will highlight the art scene of the province with a Mural Painting Exhibit to take place in the Luna leg of the celebration. This exhibit will adorn the streets with vibrant beach-inspired art. Meanwhile, the Surfboard Competition in the Bacnotan leg will allow aspiring artists to transform surfboards into stunning pieces of functional art.
Sports Activities and Competitions
For sports enthusiasts, La Union Surfing Break offers a variety of adrenaline-pumping activities and friendly competitions. Join in or watch the beach volleyball matches in the Bacnotan leg that will take place throughout the three-day celebration.
Meanwhile, get your heart racing with lively Zumba sessions Luna and Bacnotan have organized for days two and three. Other events include a “Laro ng Lahi,” a bikeathon, and a Bancathon Raft Race. All of these events promote teamwork, fun, and camaraderie.
Participate and Ride the Waves of Change, Culture, and Celebration
La Union Surfing Break has evolved from being a simple celebration of La Union’s surfing culture to a series of events that encompass music, art, sports, and eco-consciousness. LUSB perfectly showcases the vibrant culture of La Union and is a platform to give back to the environment.
As November 3 approaches, make sure you have booked your accommodation and planned your day-to-day itinerary. Get ready to experience the thrill of La Union Surfing Break 2023 and ride the waves of excitement. This is your chance to create memories on the pristine La Union shores — ones that will surely last a lifetime.
Related Reading: Top Tourist Destinations To Visit After Landing at Clark International Airport
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Featured Image: Tatler Asia
