One of the most awaited celebrations in the City of San Jose del Monte is the commemoration of its patron St. Joseph The Worker and the city’s founding anniversary — the Tanglawan Festival.

Derived from the Old Tagalog word tanglaw which means light, symbolizes the light that has been guiding the San Joseños from the beginning to the progressive future ahead. According to the founding history, there was a soldier who was lost in the forest of the mountain until he found and followed the light that leads to an image of St. Joseph The Worker. He finally found a way out of the forest and brought it to the nearest parish. The place where the image of the saint was found is in the same location where the St. Joseph The Worker Parish was built. Thus, the city name San Jose del Monte means St. Joseph of the Mountain.

Year 2016

In 2016, San Jose del Monte introduced its first Tanglawan Festival, celebrating 16 years as a city. Led by Congresswomen. Rida Robes and the City Government, the festival aimed to showcase the city's growth and support its people. Lasting from September 5th to 10th, the festival was filled with activities, including cultural shows and a trade fair called "Kooperatiba at Ako." It also highlighted plans to improve tourism and infrastructure in the city.

The festival's highlight was on September 10th, the city's anniversary. The day featured a mass, a lively procession, and agreements to enhance citywide lighting. The celebrations concluded with a spectacular fireworks display, symbolizing hope for San Joseños.

Year 2017

The Tanglawan Festival was celebrated for a whole week, started last September 3, 2017 with a Mass in honor of the Lady of Lourdes, a famous religious icon in the city. It will then be capped off by an Animation Light Show and a performance by Parokya ni Edgar on September 10, 2017.

The Highlight of the Tanglawan Festival 2017 that was held last September 8, 2017, is when City of San Jose Del Monte Bulacan tried to capture the Guinness Record for the World’s Largest Lantern Parade. Singapore holds said record with a total of 10,568 participants. The participants in the said parade were from different schools from Bulacan City, there we’re around 25,000 students that marched off to Altaraza with their lanterns that was made from recycled materials while singing the “Arya, San Joseño!”

Year 2018

In 2018, the Tanglawan Festival commenced with pomp and grandeur, welcoming esteemed guests including Showbiz personalities Aira Manalo and Juancho Trivino, Hon. Alex Castro, and Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque. The event unfolded in spectacular fashion, featuring a vibrant parade and captivating performances by various sectors and agencies representing the administration of Mayor Arthur Robes and Congresswomen. Rida Robes. The festivities kicked off on September 1st at the Convention Center of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan.

One of the festival's highlights was the "Maningning na Karosa ng Kasaysayan" competition held in the afternoon. This competition aimed to showcase the rich historical backgrounds of the city's barangays. Barangay Kaypian emerged victorious, claiming the 1st Prize, followed by the Upland Clustered Barangays and the Sta. Cruz Clustered Barangays, respectively.

Year 2019

The Tanglawan Festival 2019 and 19th Cityhood Anniversary of San Jose Del Monte showcased the resilience and vibrant spirit of the city's community. Despite challenges such as heavy rainfall, the festivities proceeded with grace and determination, highlighting the city's rich cultural heritage and its aspirations for growth and development. From the solemn Mass and Procession of Patron San Jose Manggagawa to the dazzling Tanglawan Parade and the introduction of HAPAG TANGLAWAN, each event symbolized unity, pride, and a commitment to progress. As the Painting Exhibition at SM City San Jose Del Monte continues to captivate audiences, it serves as a testament to the city's enduring creativity and talent. With Arya San Joseño echoing through the streets, the 4th Tanglawan Festival has set the stage for a future filled with hope, prosperity, and continued celebration of San Jose Del Monte's remarkable journey.

Year 2020

In 2020, the Tanglawan Festival in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, underwent significant adjustments in response to the global COVID-19 pandemic. Transitioning to virtual platforms became imperative to adhere to social distancing measures and ensure public safety. Live-streamed performances featured local talents showcasing cultural festivities, enabling community engagement from the safety of participants' homes. Organizers pivoted to online contests and competitions, fostering community participation through digital art showcases and online cooking challenges.

Year 2021

In 2021, as restrictions eased and vaccination efforts increased, the Tanglawan Festival may have returned with renewed energy and enthusiasm. Organizers might have focused on revitalizing the local economy by promoting tourism and supporting small businesses that were affected by the pandemic. The festival could have featured a mix of in-person and virtual events, allowing both local residents and visitors to participate safely.

Year 2022

By 2022, the Tanglawan Festival might have regained its pre-pandemic momentum, attracting larger crowds and offering an extensive lineup of activities. Organizers may have emphasized the importance of cultural preservation and heritage conservation, encouraging community involvement in safeguarding traditional practices for future generations. The festival could have incorporated elements of technology and innovation to enhance the overall experience, such as augmented reality tours or digital storytelling platforms.

Year 2023

In September 2023, San Jose del Monte's Tanglawan Festival commenced with an extravagant opening ceremony, attended by Congresswoman Florida P. Robes, Mayor Arthur B. Robes, and various dignitaries. The festival's theme, "Kahapon, Ngayon at Bukas”, set the stage for a celebration of the city's heritage and prospects. Notable guests, including Robi Domingo and AC Bonifacio, graced the event, adding to its allure.

Throughout the festival, diverse cultural performances, such as the "Tanglaw" Cultural Fashion Show, highlighted the city's rich tapestry of traditions. Families and community members joined in the festivities, creating a joyous and inclusive atmosphere. The Arya-Aryahan Street dance and Showdown Competition showcased the talents of local schools, with City College of San Jose del Monte emerging as the champion.

The Tanglawan Unity Walk, held on the sixth day, symbolized solidarity and support for the city's aspirations. Led by Mayor Robes, the procession brought together thousands of participants from various sectors, underscoring the community's shared vision for progress. The festival concluded with a spectacular drone show and fireworks display, illuminating the night sky and leaving a lasting impression of hope and optimism for San Jose del Monte's future.

The Tanglawan Festival of September 2023 was a vibrant celebration of San Jose del Monte's heritage and future. Through colorful displays, cultural performances, and community events, residents and guests united to showcase their talents and commitment to progress. As the festival concluded with a dazzling display of lights and fireworks, it left a lasting impression of hope and optimism for the city's bright future.

Year 2024