By Shy Polido
IT’S Iloilo’s most festive time of the year!
The world-renowned Dinagyang Festival is here as its joyous beats usher in a familiar sense of pride and ingenuity to all Ilonggos.
This annual revelry held every fourth Sunday of January is the most sought-after religious and cultural celebration in honor of Señor Sto. Niño, the Child Jesus.
Every year, week-long events are also anticipated just days before the highlight. Now as the metro adapts to constraints brought about by the global health crisis, most of this year’s revelry activities shift into virtual spaces.
But amid this new normal, Ilonggos still have every reason to be excited as Iloilo Business Park joins the locale in this meaningful celebration.
This year, the Iloilo Business Park will be the venue of the biggest Dinagyang Festival activities.
The 72-hectare Iloilo Business Park is set to host the biggest events of this year’s Dinagyang Festival where health and safety protocols are being strictly enforced.
In accordance to local government regulations, strict safety protocols will be observed at all times during the activities inside the township.
One Iloilo, One
Dinagyang Trade Fair
With the city’s budding economy fueled by its businesses, Iloilo Business Park, in partnership with One Iloilo Group, will be ushering in local entrepreneurs as they showcase their exquisite crafts and products.
These products will be displayed at Festive Walk Mall’s Indoor Atrium beginning Jan. 20 until the 24th.
Dinagyang Food Walk
On top of the merriment, Ilonggos deserve a good burp in Iloilo Business Park’s Festive Walk Parade starting Jan. 22-24 at 4 p.m. until 10 p.m.
To make sure that safety remains in place for everyone, only drive-thrus and pick-ups will be allowed.
Drive through at Iloilo Business Park’s Festive Walk Parade as it hosts superb cuisine and great food. While dine-in won’t be available during the festival, pick-up is allowed. 
Dinagyang Warriors Fashion Show
Every year, the revelry’s highlight is the Ati Tribe competition which consists of performers dubbed as “warriors.” At the sound of festive drum beats, they dance to their loud chants and clever choreographies. The warriors’ skin are painted with black on top of colorful headdresses and costumes made of indigenous materials.
Now what’s better than seeing these warriors up close in their iconic look?
The Dinagyang Warriors Fashion Show will bring the truest color of cultural experience this coming Jan. 23 at 8 p.m. at the Megaworld Boulevard.
The activity will be open for all.
IBP also reminds revelers to always observe health protocols such as wearing face masks and face shields, disinfecting of hands and safe distancing.
Dinagyang Fun Bike Ride and Lights Show
On Jan. 24, IBP will host the Dinagyang Fun Bike Ride where local bikers and enthusiasts will get to explore the township’s breadth and indulge in the warmth brought by the bike-friendly township. The activity was designed parallel to Iloilo City’s identity as the country’s bike capital.
To cap off the event, the night of Jan. 24 showcases bursts of colors and hues through a closing program and the much-awaited light show via Facebook livestream on the Festive Walk Iloilo page (www.facebook.com/FestiveWalkIloilo/)/PN
