I was born 30-minute drive away from the University of the Philippines Los Baños or UPLB but my parents have been working in the university since I first got my awareness of the world. I went to a high school that was a 5-minute jeepney ride from the feb fair area. I finished college and worked for 7 years in UPLB. and I have been going there since I was a kid. So, I guess I am credible enough to share my thoughts about it. LOL.
What is UPLB Feb Fair?
– it is an annual tradition in UPLB that started as a martial law protest in the 70s. It is an event every February in UPLB during around Valentine’s week in which you, your friends, family or date can walk around to see different tents of different UPLB organizations, variety of stores, and food vendors of all sorts. At night, there are local bands that play songs and operational mini carnival with darts, throw coins games, Ferris wheel and other kids’ rides.
What are the main activities there?
– I personally like street food crawling of all kinds like grilled corn, meat, innards, and sometimes if they have Ilocos empanada. Usually there are fruit shake stand selling all sorts of fruit shakes. You can also do a little shopping or support local craft and plant stores. There is also wall climbing. Henna tattoo looks fun to do but I haven’t. UPLB organizations have some fun activities as well if you will walk around and stop by their tents. At night, the main event would be to jam with the local bands until midnight.
How to go to UPLB from Manila?
– since I grew up in Laguna and a proud from the province, the only way I know by public transportation would be to find a bus or van station that has a route going to Sta. Cruz or Calamba, Laguna. If you happen to ride the route to Sta. Cruz, you will have to drop off at Olivarez Plaza and ride a jeepney that has a sign board saying UP COLLEGE and tell the driver to drop you off there which is a 10-20 minutes ride depending on the traffic. But, if the last stop of the bus or van was in Calamba, you will have to ride a jeepney with the same signage but it will be 50 minutes to 1 hour jeepney ride. When you rode the one that says UP GATE or the jeepney won’t go inside, they will drop you by the gate and not to the exact location, don’t worry you will just have to walk from there using your map or follow the crowd.
– if you have a car it will be easier, you just use an online app. You can park close to the venue so it won’t be too difficult to go out. You can park before the campus gate as well and just walk to go to the fair. The car has to have a UPLB sticker pass to get inside or you will need to leave your driver’s license at the gate. Make sure to find a safe place to park.
Is there entrance fee in the UPLB Feb fair?
– no. It is free. Unlike the UP Diliman fair, this one is free to enter. At least the ground with all the tents where the stage will be. Although there are events that you will have to pay to enter.
How much money do I need to prepare for the UPLB Feb fair?
– it depends on the activities you will try. Excluding the transportation cost, if you will just eat and jam with the band, I will recommend P500. Your P1000 will already allow you to eat, jam with the band, do henna tattoo, ride the Ferris wheel, and buy few stuff.
Will there still be jeepneys after midnight in the UPLB Feb Fair?
– although few, there will still be jeepneys but usually you will not find them inside the campus and you will have to walk outside to go at least to the gate.
Are there bars selling alcohol inside the fair?
– no. Selling of alcohol is not allowed inside the fair so do not expect to see bars selling one. Although, there are lots of bars outside the campus you can go first. But, drink responsibly and do not bring chaos to the fun fair.
Are there public C.R. or restrooms?
-the closest one I know would be at the Student Union building. Although, they may put portable toilets outside.
The UPLB Feb Fair is one of the fun activities to do during February. It is not expensive but full of activities for people of all ages. You can enjoy it alone or with people. Make sure to be responsible especially with your behavior. Have fun but respect others that are enjoying the event and please put your trash in the bins.
larswrites 