Dinagyang festival is annually held in Iloilo City, Philippines, on the fourth Sunday of January. The event not only commemorates the birth of Jesus but also showcases the rich culture and history of Iloilo City.
DINAGYANG FESTIVAL 2023 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES
- January 13, 2023 (Friday 1 PM – 6 PM): Grand Opening Salvo
Location: Iloilo Freedom Grandstand
- January 18, 2023 (Wednesday 6 pm): Miss Iloilo
Location: Iloilo Convention Center - January 19 – 22, 2023 (Thursday to Sunday): Iloilo Dinagyang Food Festival
Location: Downtown Area | Iloilo City Mall - January 20, 2023 (Friday 2 PM – 6 PM): Sto. Niño Fluvial Procession & Solemn Foot Procession
Location: Muelle Loney - January 21, 2023 (Saturday)
- Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan (8 AM – 12 PM)
Location: Iloilo Freedom Grandstand | Muelle Loney St. Iloilo City (3 other stages)
- Sponsor’s Mardi Gras (1:30 PM – 5:30 PM)
Location: Iloilo Freedom Grandstand
- Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan (8 AM – 12 PM)
- January 22, 2023 (Sunday 8 AM – 12 PM)
ABOUT DINAGYANG FESTIVAL
Dinagyang is a Hiligaynon term derived from dagyang, which means “merry-making.” It commemorates the Infant Jesus’ feast as well as the contract between the Datus and the villagers. During the celebration, locals dress up in bright costumes and masks and dance to rhythmic deafening music. The festival also includes three important events where traditional competitions are held: the Ati Tribe Competition, the Kasadyahan Cultural Dance Competition, and the Miss Dinagyang Competition.
In Ilonggo, the word “dinagyang” means “revelry,” and the festival dates back to 1967, when a replica of the Senor Santo Nino was transported to Iloilo City from Cebu. Currently, the celebration features street parties, firework displays, and competitions in tribal dancing.
WHAT DATE IS DINAGYANG FESTIVAL
Fourth Sunday of January