By Mariela Angella Oladive
Promising nothing but the best festival experience for locals and tourists, Megaworld’s Iloilo Business Park officially launched the “Dinagyang for All” celebration through an array of activities that showcase the rich and diverse culture of Iloilo City.
The launching was marked with the lighting of the iconic 20-foot giant inflatable dog on top of the Festive Walk Iloilo Bridgeway during a press conference, January 18 at Richmonde Hotel Iloilo.
Set to transform the 72-hectare premier township into the ultimate Dinagyang Festival hub, the celebration will feature star-studded events, epic food festivals, and vibrant cultural attractions.
A Star-Studded Celebration of Music, Arts and Flavors
Iloilo Business Park is poised to host a vibrant celebration, treating revelers with a series of exciting events that will showcase the rich arts and culture of Iloilo.
The festivities will kick off with the Dinagyang Art Festival, scheduled to launch on January 24 at the Iloilo Contemporary Museum of Culture and Arts, featuring the masterpieces of local artists.
For food enthusiasts, the upcoming Dinagyang Food Festival is expected to become the city’s longest food fest, with over 200 merchants lining Java Road and Festive Walk Parade.
Visitors are anticipated to savor a diverse array of Ilonggo dishes, delicacies, and street food.
The festival aligns with the anticipated UNESCO recognition of Iloilo City as a creative gastronomic center.
Additionally, the Dinagyang Food Festival is set to include a special live performance by the popular band Nobita on January 25.
Music and party lovers will have their share of excitement with the Pepsi Night on January 25, featuring live performances by anticipated popular bands and artists.
The following day, the Dinagyang Music Festival at Java Road is expected to present DJs Victor Pring, Dara Carmina, Arvin Ong, and the Patequeros.
On January 27, the anticipated Coke Studio event is expected to headline Janine Berdin, known from “Tawag Ng Tanghalan,” and top local bands Alamat and Tropa Vibes, creating an eagerly awaited musical experience at Java Road.
The grand finale on January 27 is anticipated to feature the Dinagyang Kapamilya Karavan, with lead actors Paulo Avelino and Kim Chiu from ABS-CBN’s “Linlang.”
The star-studded event is expected to include performances by Andrea Brillantes, Kyle Echarri, Gela Atayde, Tommy Alejandrino, Daniela Sanner of “Senior High,” and Maris Racal and Anthony Jennings from “Can’t Buy Me Love.”
Adding to the spectacle, the Iloilo Business Park is expected to host the Dinagyang Iloilo Business Park Light Show on January 24-25 at Plaza Delgado, while the anticipated ILOmination In the Sky on January 26 is set to transform the skies into a mesmerizing canvas of lights and colors.
The Best of Iloilo Products and More
Shoppers are invited to explore an extensive array of products at Iloilo City’s largest trade fair, the Iloilo Business Expo (ILOBEX), taking place at the Festive Walk Mall Atrium from Jan. 19 to 28. Organized by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Iloilo Chapter (PCCI-Iloilo), the fair features over 100 exhibitors from Iloilo’s small-medium enterprises, offering local delicacies, fresh produce, garments, accessories, native products, and more.
In addition to shopping, visitors can immerse themselves in Dinagyang culture by exploring the Dinagyang Family of Dolls Exhibit on the 2nd floor of Festive Walk Mall or the Dagway Face of Festival Exhibit by Manny Librodo at the mall’s indoor atrium.
“Dinagyang For All is not just a celebration; it’s an experience that brings people together to celebrate culture, diversity, and the vibrant spirit Iloilo City is known for. Regardless of religion, ethnicity, age, everyone including fur parents and pets of all shapes and sizes are welcome to celebrate and enjoy the best of Dinagyang experience here at our vibrant, pet-friendly community,” said Mikee Vivo, general manager for provincial properties of Megaworld Lifestyle Malls.
The festival’s theme, “Dinagyang for All,” warmly welcomes guests of all ages and backgrounds, including tourists, locals, fur parents, and pets.
Pet owners can secure passes for their furry friends. Iloilo City’s premier business district and lifestyle destination invites participants from various walks of life to indulge in the festivities from Jan. 19 to 28, offering a diverse range of experiences showcasing the best of Iloilo.
All activities are free on a first-come, first-served basis for everyone to have the best of the cultural tapestry of Iloilo.
