Tarlac City

Welcome to Tarlac City, the vibrant capital of Tarlac Province in Central Luzon! Known as the “Melting Pot of Central Luzon,” this dynamic city brings together a rich blend of Kapampangan, Ilocano, Pangasinense, and Tagalog cultures. From historic landmarks to flavorful food trips and scenic hideaways, Tarlac City is your next must-visit destination that proudly carries a legacy of patriotism, spirituality, and culinary creativity.

Tarlac City is a landlocked gem nestled between Pampanga, Pangasinan, Zambales, and Nueva Ecija. It serves as a strategic gateway to Northern Luzon. Aside from its central location, it’s also famous for being the hometown of many revolutionary heroes and national leaders, including former President Cory Aquino.

• Monasterio de Tarlac – Perched on Mount Resurrection in San Jose, this serene pilgrimage site houses a relic of the True Cross and offers panoramic views of the Zambales Mountain Range.
• Aquino Ancestral House – Dive into Philippine political history at the family home of Ninoy and Cory Aquino in Barangay San Miguel.
• Kart City Tarlac – Need speed? This go-kart racing destination in the heart of the city is a crowd favorite among thrill-seekers.
• Tarlac Recreational Park – A haven for outdoor lovers offering biking trails, obstacle courses, swimming pools, and more.

Tarlac City is a multi-ethnic haven where Kapampangan, Ilocano, Pangasinense, and Tagalog dialects harmoniously blend. The city celebrates values of family, faith, and community, evident in both their warm hospitality and devotion to cultural traditions.

Tarlac’s food scene is a flavorful reflection of its cultural diversity:

• Chicharon Camiling – Crunchy pork rinds that are dangerously addictive!
• Tupig – Grilled rice cakes wrapped in banana leaves, often served during holidays.
• Pancit Batil Patung – A noodle dish loaded with egg, veggies, and savory meat.
• Pindang Damulag – Cured carabao meat that packs a tangy-salty punch.

Don’t forget to stop by Matutina’s and Dampa sa Tarlac for a seafood feast with a Filipino twist.

• Melting Pot Festival (formerly Chicharon Iniruban Festival) – A lively celebration of Tarlac’s rich cultural mix and its tasty specialties.
• Belenismo sa Tarlac – Held every Christmas season, it’s a citywide competition of the most elaborate, creative Nativity displays. It’s dubbed the “Belen Capital of the Philippines!”

Tarlac City’s local music scene ranges from folk serenades (kundiman) during fiestas to modern hip-hop and acoustic sessions in cafés and community events. You’ll often hear a fusion of styles that mirrors the city’s cultural tapestry.

• Being the Melting Pot of Central Luzon
• The spiritual haven Monasterio de Tarlac
• A proud lineage of Philippine political icons
• Its diverse, delicious cuisine
• Artistic and religious celebrations like Belenismo