The month of August translates to Kadayawan Festival in Davao City. Officially, the Kadayawan is a week-long event that, this year, started last August 16 and will commemorate on August 22 with the much-awaited floral parade. I said officially, because for many of us here in Davao, Kadayawan really spans the whole month of August. That means roughly 30 days of fun and excitement.
For first time visitors of the city, the Kadayawan also provides the best opportunity of getting a feel of what real Davao City can be.
So for visitors and locals alike, the single, common question is, “What can we expect in Kadayawan 2010?”
The short answer is, “A lot.” There are so many to be enjoyed in the city this month. Here are some for you to consider.
Cultural Events
The Kadayawan Festival was really started by the natives of Davao. (informally though, because there was no Powers-That-Be to formalize it yet.) The local folks noticed that the month of August was really the month of fruits, vegetables and overall bountiful harvest. Naturally, they gave thanks and attribute their produce to a Higher Being.
In other words, it is the festival by the natives that we modern Dabawenyos have taken to a whole new level to make it more formal – and lively. Still, the spirit of the event is there. And thanks to our local government, the natives of the land are being honored and recognized for their contributions during this event.
So remember: Kadayawan is a celebration of a bountiful harvest and it is also a cultural festival. In fact, the Kadawayan Festival will be highlighted with the following Cultural Events the festival has been known for:
- The Indak-Indak Sa Kadalanan — A street dancing show and competition. You’ll witness native dance steps accompanied by native tunes – all these while the dancers are taking the busy downtown roads of Davao; minus the jeepneys of course.
- Pamulak (A Floral Float Parade) — This one is considered to be the main attraction of the festival. Flowers and orchids in full bloom will be showcased in beautiful colors and decorative designs. Expect to see this on Sunday, 22nd of August.
Fun and Parties
Now, I know party people would consider all those Cultural Events as kind of boring. And sure it’s difficult to argue with them.
There’s only one thing that can fire the adrenaline alive: Party. Of course, this it would be boring indeed if the Kadayawan will not include such fun and exciting events.
Here’s something to consider for all you party peeps out there: SMART Concert — This will be on Aug 21, 8:00AM till 11:00AM at the People’s Park.
If you can’t go there because it’s a morning event and no party person ever parties in the morning, you can always visit any party place and bar at night-time. They definitely have something in store that blends with the Kadayawan Fever.
Not to be left behind, the malls around the city always have something to surprise you at these very times. From singing and dancing to shopping and dining, any mall in the city is definitely a way to go once you are here in Davao for the Kadayawan.
Fruits… More Fruits
Kadayawan is not without fruits all around the city. They come in abundance and at very affordable prices. For example
- Lansones at P 10 / kg
- Durian at P 20 / kg
- Mangosteen at P 15 /kg
- Rambutan at 20 / kg
Thanks to the bountiful harvest, that’s already the cheapest price these fruits can get. The other reason you would want to buy these fruits is they come at the highest (sweetest) quality during this season.
Shopping Galore
Speaking about malls, those from the nearby towns and cities already know that Kadayawan also brings with it the best in business deals. In other words, discount offers abound. Plus, competitions are just next to each you don’t even have to drive a car to compare prices and strike a deal.
I’d like to make special mention that there is currently a Horticulture Exhibit next to the SM Parking Area. For all you flower and orchid lovers out there, that’s the place to go.
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The Kadayawan 2010 is written by Carlos Velasco.
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