The Dinagyang (from the word "Dagyang" meaning "have fun") festival is a world renowned event held every fourth Sunday of January. It is a religious and cultural celebration of the Child Jesus, Señor Santo Niño whom the Augustinian friars shared their strong Christian beliefs of devotion to the Señor Santo Niño to the first settlers of Iloilo, the Ati and Malay descents. Devotees from all over the Philippines and the world flock the city to celebrate this three day event. The busy streets of the City of Love are closed. Flaunted with all the banderitas, kioks and stages. Every corner of the streets held its own activities from bands, DJ's and entertainers joining the celebration. Food fests, tattoos and merchandised can be seen in every nook. It's a jam pack event that you couldn't seem to get enough of. Endless partying 'til the break of dawn, overflowing beers and liquors and continuous beats of musics are all over the downtown area and Smallville complex (night life area).
The three day event comprised of: Friday (drums and lyre), Saturday (Kasadyanhan) and Sunday (Ati competition). If you want a great view with a seat, tickets are sold at the Iloilo City Hall in Plaza Libertad for the Kasadyanhan and Ati competition. Tickets are rapidly sold, so better book early. You could also come early to any of the judging areas to have a spectatular view for free. There are five judging areas: Iloilo Grandstand near Plaza Libertad, Provincial Capitol, intersection of Delgado-Mabini Street, corner Robinson's Place and in front of Grand Hotel in Central market. All performances are done simultaneously in a carousel rotation. You could also go mobile through the streets while performances are performed. Participants travel by foot, you could get a chance to have your photos taken and watch them perform their "sadsad" (street dance). Make sure to be at your most comfortable and don't forget to bring water and protection from the sun. It could get pretty hot. If you're not up to go out, you could also enjoy the performances live in the local channels. Accommodation by January of all the hotels, pension houses, etc. are fully booked for the season. Advanced booking is a must but you could never run out of events and parties to go. What are you waiting for?! Dagyang ta!!
Dinagyang Ati Warrior
The streets of Iloilo are adorned with banderitas, a lined with table and chairs for the food festival.
Ati Warriors during their Sadsad.
Hala Bira Iloilo!!
Photo courtesy of Tatz Jacones
Along the streets of downtown Iloilo are historical reserved building going back to the Spanish Era. The Villanueva building, one of the heritage structures. Illuminated at night.
Photo courtesy of Tatz Jacones
Welcome to the City of Love Iloilo Grand Stand.
Photo courtesy of Tatz Jacones
Free concert by DJ Mars Miranda at the Capitol Grounds, in collaboration with a telecommunication company.
Photo courtesy of Tatz Jacones
How to get here? Book a plane to Iloilo City even though the Iloilo International Airport is packed with passengers, there are information booths to accommodate your every query about the province. You could take the cab at a fix rate or a van with a 10-12 co-passengers that would cost you around php70-80 that stops at Jaro Plaza or SM City. If you're on a nearby Island, I highly suggest you book a round trip ticket atleast three days in advance. The new Iloilo port is in Barrio Obrero, take a cab to your chosen place. Book your tickets and accommodations, and join us next year! Hala Bira Iloilo! Hope to see you!
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