DINAGYANG FESTIVAL

Just like most festivals in January, Dinagyang is a thanksgiving for and a celebration in honor of Sr. Santo Nino. But it prides itself as a festival of excellent folk choreography, a showcase of Ilonggo heritage and culture. It is as grand as Iloilo's old churches and mansions. 

Highlights of the Festival

This photo is from byahilo.com

DINAGYANG FLUVIAL PROCESSION

The religious highlight is the fluvial procession along Iloilo River. The cultural highlights are the Kasadyahan and the Ati-atihan parades and competitions.

The fluvial procession is on a Friday of the Dinagyang week. Devotees carrying assorted images of the Child Jesus ride in motorized bancas from the mouth of the river towards the pier area where the foot parade would start and then back to the church.

 

This photo is from exploreiloilo.com

This photo is from jaycris.blogspot.com

Held on a Saturday, Kasadyahan is a cultural parade. The presentation is theatrical and in local color.

This photo is from byahilo.com

The Ati-atihan contest on a Sunday, is a big event. Participated in by at least twenty groups or tribe, the warriors wipe black soot all over their body and dance to the drumbeats.

The festival was first started to celebrate the feast of the Sto. Nino. From a parish church festivity to honor the Child Jesus, the celebration has evolved to become a religious-cultural activity. It is now a vehicle to promote Iloilo as a tourist and investment destination.


The performances have awed audiences because of its spectacle - the choreography, costumes and music are very impressive. 

Through the years, the festival has gained national prominence and recognition by winning the national street dancing competition. 

Source: www.dinagyangsailoilo.com