Where: Davao City, Davao del Sur
When: Third week of August
Experience the vibrant Kadayawan Festival in Davao City, Davao del Sur. This cultural celebration showcases the rich traditions and heritage of the Philippines.
The Kadayawan Festival has its roots in the thanksgiving rituals of the indigenous peoples of Davao. They would converge to celebrate a bountiful harvest, a practice that was later institutionalized. The festival was officially named Kadayawan in 1988 by then-Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, derived from the Mandaya word 'madayaw,' a friendly greeting meaning good or beautiful.
Kadayawan is a celebration of life, a thanksgiving for the gifts of nature, the wealth of culture, the bounties of harvest, and the serenity of living. It honors the 11 indigenous and Moro tribes of Davao City. The festival is highlighted by the 'Indak-Indak sa Kadalanan' (street dancing) and the 'Pamulak sa Kadayawan' (floral float parade).
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