Quick Tips for Enjoying Cebu's Sinulog Festival

Article posted Wed, 16 Jan 2019
On the third Sunday of every January, thousands of people make their way to Cebu to celebrate one of the Philippines’ grandest festivals, Sinulog. The massive event combines music and wildly colourful costumes in a dance that honours Santo Niño and tells the story of the Filipino people’s pagan past.  People clad in headdresses and outfits covered in vibrant beads and feathers parade down the streets of Cebu dancing to the rhythm of drums and gongs. Both locals and visitors flock to the city to celebrate and witness the exciting event

Here are our tips for making the most of Sinulog festival.

Do Your Research 

There are a lot of activities on offer in Cebu during the week of Sinulog. Scope out the ones that interest you the most beforehand so that you don’t risk missing anything memorable! Visit the official Cebu Sinulog 2019 website for a full schedule of events and activities during this year’s festival.

Grab a Seat

Not a fan of crowds?  Buy a ticket to enjoy the parade from a seat on bleachersYou’ll still feel the excitement of the event, just with a bit more breathing room. However, we’re all for a little face paint, headgear, and street action! Bleachers or parade, don’t forget to blow your whistle and yell “Pit Senyor”!

Stay Alert 

Keep in mind that, in all of its exciting glory, Sinulog is a street parade with thousands of people. Make sure to keep your valuables close, or if you can, leave them behind entirely. Think of it as a way to freeing up your hands for dancing! 

Convenience is Key 

Most of the streets will be off limits to vehicles, so you’ll want to book accommodations that are walkable from the event. Red Planet Cebu, which is conveniently located across from Ayala Business Park, is just a short walking distance from the parade route and some of the festival’s main attractions.