The South’s most extravagant and celebrated festivity is here again and once more Davao City will unravel the very reasons why it is considered a land of bountiful harvest and melting pot of people of diverse backgrounds.
The streets will once again show the colors, the sights, the sounds and the experience of Kadayawan sa Dabaw. This week-long annual festival speaks of the beauty of the Dabawenyo culture that made name throughout the globe and earned the admiration of millions.
From exquisite ethnic crafts, exciting destinations, beauty and glamour of the waling-waling and the majestic Philippine eagle — these and more is what Davao offers to local and foreign tourists and visitors who would take the time and have a glimpse of this cultural haven.
What To Expect In Kadayawan 2009
17th August. This year’s celebration of the Kadayawan sa Dabaw has the same texture and appeal that made the former celebrations a thing to keep on coming back to for many tourists. On the opening day August 17, the celebration will feature Davao’s best fashion designers and creations at the Gaisano Mall in “Moda Mindanaw“.
18th August will as ever be exciting with an exhibit of Indigenous People’s photos to be shown in Hulagway sa Kaliwatan at the Museo Dabawenyo with the festival’s grand opening at the People’s Park during the afternoon followed by the Indigenous People’s Festival Opening themed “Lumadnong Kasaulogan” at night.
19th August. A thorough peek into the lives of the tribes will compose the whole day of August 19 with an exhibit of their crafts and traditions at Rizal Park that will last until the 24th, while beauty and brains continue to battle at the Search for the Hiyas ng Kadayawan during the evening to be held at the CAP Auditorium in Anda Street.
20th to 21 August. The World Music Competition will be staged August 20 at the NCCC Mall of Davao in Matina. SM City Davao will be the host venue for the World Dance Competition which will be staged the following day.
22nd August. The traditional Davao River Festival will be held on August 22 after which fashion designers will again set ramps on fire with Moda Minadaw’s Fashion Night in the evening at the Venue or music lovers may find the Evening Tugtogan at Rizal and People’s Parks more interesting.
23rd August. The popular Indak-Indak sa Kadalanan or the Street Dancing Competition will take place August 23. “Indak-Indak sa Kadalanan” has been flocked by people because of display of Davao’s rich culture depicted in colorful costumes and feisty music in which performers turned the highway to a dance floor despite the heat of the midday sun or haste of falling rains.
24th August. Beautiful and colorful floats will parade the street on the 24th with the Floral Float Parade and Competition dubbed as “Pamulak sa Kadalanan“. The festivity will be concluded with Mayor Rodrig Duterte’s free concert treat for the people.
Suggested Davao Hotels
In preparation for this momentous event, hotels, inns and suites have prepared the best for every visitor and are more than willing and ready to give you the care like you have never been far from home.
The Marco Polo Hotel. You may try the most luxurious hotel in Davao, The Marco Polo Davao — with its world class hotel service, amenities and facilities that is sure to give you the best of staying in Davao. Marco Polo is located at corner Roxas Avenue and Claveria Street and is the best place to witness the happenings, even when you are just inside your room.
The Waterfront Insular Hotel. If you want to enjoy the celebration but opt to stay away from the noise during the night to give you a more relaxing rest, try the Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao at Lanang. They have the same amenities and facilities that are truly world class.
Other Small Hotels: Las Casitas, La Anclar, Microtel Inn and Suites
Staying in Davao for the Kadayawan festival does not have to be that expensive. If your budget is tight but still want to experience the thrills of the festivities, there are inns and suites that offer comfortable stay in less the cost. You may try Las Casitas along Rizal Avenue or La Anclar Hometel in Bonifacio and there are a lot more.
Another spot where big activities for the festival will be held is at the Damosa Gateway. Concerts, live band performances and night parties will be held there — the best for all the party people out there. If you wish to be stay at the Damosa Gateway, you may try the excellent service being offered by Microtel Inns and Suites, the best place to stay for young professionals and tourists who want a modern experience in Davao.
These exciting activities could only be seen and experienced in Kadayawan, so step in to Davao and indulge yourself with the Kadayawan fever.
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This Kadayawan Festival 2009 article is written by Matt Regis.