Grand Parade of Lights, musical performances, and a grand fireworks display made this year’s Dinagyang celebration exciting in the upscale township of Megaworld Iloilo.
The events at the Megaworld’s Iloilo Business Park is usually anticipated by the Ilonggos among other venues because of the range of events that are scattered all over the township. It is now on its third year, the population of people who trooped to Iloilo City’s business center for the annual festival has also tripled.
The township was once again illuminated with the vibrancy of artistically designed floats of the Dinagyang Grand Parade of Lights and which showcased the vibrancy of the Ilonggo way of merrymaking.
The participating floats by different groups, companies, and corporations brightened up the entire stretch of Megaworld Boulevard, transforming the 72-hectare township into a canvass of colors and lights. The larger than life floats showcased the works of Ilonggo artists and the collaborative efforts of the community.
Aside from beautifully-crafted floats, the event featured three champion tribes from Anilao’s Banaag Festival and a tribe from San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan’s Tanglawan Festival, which was lauded as the biggest lantern parade in 2017 by the Guinness Book of World Record.
The night parade of lighted floats started from Diversion Road and culminated at the Megaworld Iloilo Business Park, where they were evaluated by judges according to originality, lighting effects, workmanship and creativity, among other criteria.
The night before the two-day highlight of the festival was treated by a stunning grand fireworks display that hovered over the township and which was viewed even by neighboring communities.
Iloilo’s most beautiful mall, Festive Walk Mall, hosted the Talent Competition of Miss Iloilo 2020 in Jan. 18. There were 11 women hailing from the different towns of Iloilo province who vied for three titles that will give them the honor to represent Iloilo to national pageants.
The Dinagyang Food Fest at the Festive Walk Parade also offered a range of food choices for those who were looking to satisfy their palate with various culinary delights.
Iloilo Business Park also kicked off the celebration with the Dinagyang Arts Festival at Festive Walk Mall from January 10 to 26. The event promoted Ilonggo culture and arts by displaying works of local artists.
Merrymakers at the Festive Walk Parade jammed to the music of The Dukes, The Juans, This Band, Leanne & Naara, The Itchyworms, Orange and Lemons, and more.
Singer-songwriter Moira serenaded the crowd, while DJ Mark Mira and DJ Pep Mayor pumped up the party.
The Viva Music Festival also conquered Iloilo by storm. This year, revelers moshed to the music of Valley of Chrome, Typecast and Slapshock and danced to the beat by Motherbass, DJ Nix Damn P!, Kat DJ, and DJ Jet Boado.
With all of these exciting events, the Ilonggos for sure will again be looking forward to what Megaworld Iloilo will offer in the next festival.