Kadayawan festival origin

The Kadayawan Festival is an annual celebration in Davao City, Philippines, marking the city’s bountiful harvest. It features colorful parades, cultural performances, and street dancing.

Celebration date is in every third week of August, the festival is an expression of Davao’s rich cultural heritage and a thanksgiving for its natural abundance.

The name “Kadayawan” is derived from the Mandaya word “madayaw,” a warm and friendly greeting used to explain a thing that is valuable, superior, beautiful, good, or profitable.

The week-long festivities highlight the city’s energy, featuring local products, indigenous music, food fairs, and various competitions.

Kadayawan festival costume

Participants dressed in multicolored, indigenous costumes dance to the beat of drums, gongs, and other native instruments. The event not only boosts tourism but also fosters a sense of community among residents and visitors. The Kadayawan Festival is the perfect blend of tradition and merriment, inviting everyone to experience the spirit of thanksgiving in Davao City.