ILOILO City – This southern metropolis is bustling with excitement as it inches closer to the highlights of Dinagyang 2024 this week.
Renowned for its dynamic fusion of tradition and contemporary zest, the festival, whose name translates to revelry or merrymaking in Hiligaynon, is the centerpiece of the City Government of Iloilo’s cultural calendar, according to Mayor Jerry Treñas.
The festivities are riding on the coattails of the city’s growing acclaim, marked by prestigious recognitions such as being ranked as the 4th Overall Most Competitive Highly Urbanized City in the Philippines and winning the 2023 Most Business-Friendly Local Government Unit award.
Further elevating the city’s stature, Treñas said, is Iloilo City’s distinction as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy that underscores its culinary excellence and heritage, contributing to the local community’s pride and enthusiasm.
This heightened excitement sets the perfect backdrop for the Dinagyang Festival, renowned for its participants’ extraordinary choreography and vivid costumes. These not only showcase the creativity and craftsmanship of the Ilonggos but also pay homage to their artistic heritage and ingenuity.
One of the much-anticipated events is the ILOmination street dance competition this Friday night, Jan. 26, featuring contesting tribes in dazzling brightly-lit costumes. The parade-type competition will be best viewed at the main stage of the contest at SM City Iloilo in Mandurriao district where the event will have a grand launch.
According to the Mayor Treñas, the ILOmination should whet the appetite of festival revelers to watch the following day, Saturday, Jan. 27, the “Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan” cultural extravaganza in four downtown judging areas, followed by Sunday’s (Jan. 28) festival climax – the world-renowned ati-ati tribes competition with similar performance areas as the Kasadyahan (Iloilo Freedom Grandstand, Iloilo Provincial Capitol, Quezon-Mabini, and Maria Clara).
The Heartbeat of Festival Frenzy Under One Roof
As revelers immerse themselves in the festival’s euphoria, their diverse needs are also met by SM City Iloilo – a major corporate partner of the Iloilo City Government.
As it transforms to be the heartbeat of Dinagyang festivities, SM City Iloilo hosts various special events complementing street festivities and echoing Dinagyang’s spirit within its walls.
This year, visitors can explore the Dinagyang Festival Costumes Exhibit (Jan. 17 to 28) and the One Visayas Creative Expo 2024 (Jan. 22 to 28), a joint activity of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Western Visayas and the Regional Development Council 6, showcasing the best products, destinations, and festivals of Region 6, 7 and 8.
The Iloilo Drumbeats Competition (Jan. 25), and Viva Music Festival with Ron Poe and JK Labajo (Jan. 27 to 28) promise high-energy entertainment.
‘AweSM Iloilo’ Experience
Promising an “AweSM” Dinagyang experience to all, SM City Iloilo blends culture, cuisine and commerce. From traditional Filipino crafts to contemporary fashion, the mall’s wide range of retail stores offers both a glimpse into local culture and access to global trends.
As a sumptuous place for gastronomic adventures, the mall’s culinary offerings are a reflection of Iloilo’s renowned gastronomy. There are a variety of dining options, from fast food to fine dining.
Diners can indulge in local delicacies like the batchoy and biscocho, among others, or enjoy a range of international cuisines, making it a culinary focal point for both local and foreign palates.
In fact, for this year it will stage a Grand Iloilo Food Festival (Jan. 24 to 28) and Batchoy Festival (Jan. 25 to 28).
Its strategic location and comprehensive facilities, including ample parking, information centers, and banking services, make SM City Iloilo an ideal rendezvous point for families and friends.
For international visitors, the mall serves as a comforting haven with its tourist assistance services and currency exchange counters.
The SM Traveller’s Lounge offers safety and comfort. Its air-conditioned interiors – and those of the mall – offer a pleasant respite from the tropical heat, giving festival-goers a chance to recharge.
A Treasure Trove of Souvenirs and Keepsakes
SM City Iloilo, a treasure trove for those seeking to take a piece of the festival home, dedicates spaces for local artisans and vendors showcase an array of souvenirs that embody the spirit of Dinagyang. There’s the Pasalubong Center, for example.
At Fiesta Favorite Souvenirs, visitors can find items such as Dinagyang dolls, mugs, t-shirts, hats, and other apparel emblazoned with vibrant designs that capture the festival’s essence. These collectibles serve not only as fashion statements but also as mementos of the joyous celebration.
By featuring local products and souvenirs, SM City Iloilo plays a crucial role in supporting the local economy and promoting the cultural heritage of the Ilonggos. It provides a platform for local artisans to reach a wider audience, contributing to the sustainability of the crafts and traditions.
Beyond commerce, SM City Iloilo plays a pivotal role in community engagement. During Dinagyang, it becomes more than just a shopping center; it is a platform for local artists, a supporter of local businesses, and a collaborator in city-wide celebrations.
As Dinagyang continues to evolve, SM City Iloilo remains at its heart, not merely as a commercial establishment, but as a vibrant participant in Iloilo’s most beloved festival. It stands as a testament to the seamless blend of tradition and modernity, echoing the harmonious spirit of the Ilonggos./PN
