Zamboanga is a highly-urbanized city located at the southern part of the Philippines. It currently serves as the center for the commerce and industry of the Zamboanga Peninsula Region. The city is also known as the Asia's Latin City because of its Spanish-tinged Chavacano dialect. Despite the urbanization and modernization of the city, one good thing about Zamboanga is that its customs and traditions are retained throughout the years and are still alive up to the present. An evidence of this is the annual celebration and observance of the city's biggest: The Hermosa Festival.

The Hermosa Festival is Zamboanga City's pride and is the most celebrated festival of the year. The event is actually celebrated on the 12th of October, though again, as it is the most celebrated festival in the city, there are a lot of events that are lined up; making it a month-long celebration. These events are organized by the City Government with the help of some private companies for the entire month. Each event is of great significance since their motifs are some of the city's prized treasures; the reflection of the city's rich culture. The celebration showcases the colorful and magical side of the city. It also features the city's diverse traditions and beliefs. Given that the festival is celebrated in honor of the city's patron saint, the locals; as well as the tourists from other parts of the country and abroad also observe religious activities. Indeed, Zamboanga has proved itself worthy of being called Orgullo de Mindanao or the Pride of Mindanao. Through this festival, the city is able to show the world what it has up its sleeves.

The Hermosa Festival features numerous activities; and amongst them is the Regatta . It is a vivid boat race which features the city's colorful vintas. Other activities are also held annually during the festivity like the Mascota de Zamboanga, WOW Sardinas, Cosechas de Zamboanga, Miss Zamboanga, Baile de Festival, Balikbayan Night, Dia de Culturas y Artes, Battle of the Band, Copa de Alcalde, Fiesta Sale, Musica de Chabacano, Danza la Vida, Pink October, and Servicio Medical na Fiesta Pilar.