Oh, how I love city fiestas. They always bring a great feeling of merriment and excitement going around town, seeing countless street banners, decorations and colorful pennant streamers livening up the entire place.
In the Philippines, there is one celebration dubbed as the "Festival of festivals" one couldn't simply miss. It is during the third week of August that marks the festivities annually held in Davao city, famous for being the 'Fruit Basket of the Philippines'. At this time of the year, most produce and fruits are in season with the local fruit Durian, fondly named as 'King of the Fruits' leading the pack. Also showcased are the fruits throughout the year such as the pomelo, banana, mangosteen, lanzones and rambutan. These are just few of the treats that make people come and visit Davao City, be it the locals or foreigners alike.
Davao City, being home to the Philippine's highest peak, Mt. Apo and of the country's National bird, the Philippine Eagle (also one of the world's largest eagles) boasts of a grand week-long celebration during the Kadayawan festival. Various shows, tourism activities, contests joined by students and adults are sponsored by civic organizations. One of the exciting highlights is the much- awaited street dancing called, 'Indak-indak sa Kadalanan' where participating students and professionals happily march the city streets clad in the native costumes and music instruments. Not to be missed too is the extravagant Floral and Fruits parade showing the ingenuity and artistry of the Davaoeños as they uniquely decorate their respective floats using flowers, leaves and fruits that are distinctively available only in the city.
by:
The Flagman
