Dinagyang - A Colourful Festival Of Culture

Immerse yourself in a cultural festival that has evolved from a simple communal tradition bounded by religion to a celebration beyond borders.

DINAGYANG FESTIVAL

Iloilo (Philippines)

The Philippines is bursting with an impressively diverse culture, religion and heritage that comes with its long and colourful history. The nation is known best as the ‘world’s festival capital’, with over 42,000 major and minor festivals celebrated around the archipelago. While each festival has its own distinctive flavor, the grand and annually-held Dinagyang festival stands out bolder than them all.

Dinagyang originates from the city of Iloilo. More popularly known as the ‘queen of all festivals’ in the country, Dinagyang has gained global recognition and attracted tourists eager to experience the fun-loving spirit of the people of Iloilo. The riveting celebrations of the Dinagyang Festival highlight the complexity and diversity of Filipino culture.

History

The Dinagyang festival carries a short yet interesting history. It started back in 1968, when an Augustinian priest, Rev. Fr. Ambrosio Galindez from Cebu, gave a replica of an image of Santa Niño de Cebu as a giftto a fellow Augustian priest, Fr. Sulpicio Enderez, who resided in Iloilo. Santa Niño de Cebu is the image of the child Jesus Christ.

EXPEDITION INFORMATION

WHEN Fourth Sunday of January

GETTING AROUND The most convenient way to get around is either by tricycle or jeepneys. Travellers can also consider private hire vehicles such as cars and motorcycles to get around the town