10 Things to Do in Iloilo Dinagyang Festival, Philippines
The Iloilo Dinagyang Festival is an annual religious and cultural festival held in Iloilo City, Philippines. The festival celebrates the feast of the Santo Niño, the Child Jesus, and commemorates the arrival of Malay settlers in Panay Island and the conversion of the Ati tribe to Christianity. It is a vibrant celebration of faith, culture, and history, and is one of the most popular festivals in the Philippines. Here are 10 things to do in Iloilo Dinagyang Festival.
1. Attend the Ati-Atihan Parade. The Ati-Atihan Parade is the highlight of the festival and features colorful costumes, lively music, and impressive dance performances. The parade is a tribute to the Ati tribe, who were the first inhabitants of Panay Island and were converted to Christianity by the Malay settlers.
2. Watch the Dinagyang Dance Competition. The Dinagyang Dance Competition is a highly competitive event where teams of dancers perform intricate dance routines. The dance competition is divided into three categories: Modern, Traditional, and Street.
3. Enjoy the Iloilo Food Festival. The Iloilo Food Festival is an annual event that showcases the best dishes and delicacies of Iloilo. From seafood to desserts, the festival is a great way to experience Iloilo's unique cuisine.
4. Explore the Iloilo City Museum. The Iloilo City Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Iloilo. The museum features a variety of exhibits, including artifacts from the Spanish colonial period, traditional artworks, and more.
5. Go Shopping at the Iloilo City Market. The Iloilo City Market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional Filipino products. The market is also a great place to sample local delicacies such as bibingka, puto, and kakanin.
6. Visit the Miag-ao Church. The Miag-ao Church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful churches in the country. The church is known for its elaborate Baroque architecture and is a popular tourist destination.
7. Take a Tour of Iloilo City. Iloilo City is a great place to explore on foot. From the old Spanish-era buildings to the modern skyscrapers, there is plenty to see and do in Iloilo City.
8. Enjoy the Fireworks Display. The Iloilo Dinagyang Festival is one of the most popular festivals in the country and features a spectacular fireworks display. The display is a great way to end the celebration and is a must-see for any visitor to the festival.
9. Participate in the Dinagyang Festival Mass. The Dinagyang Festival Mass is a traditional Catholic mass held to honor the Santo Niño. The mass is held in the Iloilo City Hall and features a procession of dancers and musicians.
10. Attend the Dinagyang After-Party. The Dinagyang After-Party is a great way to end the festival. The after-party features live music, DJs, and plenty of food and drinks. It's a great way to relax and enjoy the festivities.
The Iloilo Dinagyang Festival is a vibrant and exciting celebration of faith, culture, and history. It's a great way to experience the best of Iloilo and is a must-see for any visitor to the Philippines. Whether you're looking for a festive parade, an interesting museum, or a lively after-party, the Iloilo Dinagyang Festival has something for everyone.