Given its rich cultural heritage, Philippines is known for holding a bunch of grand and vibrant cultural festivals for every month across various cities in the country. This August, Davao City is bursting with excitement and festivity, as the city holds its annual celebration called the Kadayawan Festival.
Showcasing local delicacies, colorful floats, and traditional dance performances by indigenous communities in the region, this once in a year festival is a recommended event to check out, especially for tourists seeking to experience a closer interaction with Philippine culture and tradition. Compiled from Philippines Travel, Globe.com, and Davao City’s Government official website, this guide will provide you with essential information about Kadayawan Festival.
What is Kadayawan Festival and how does it start?
Kadayawan Festival is an annual week-long event that has been running in the city of Davao for more than 30 years. This local celebration’s name is derived from the word “madayaw”—a Mandaya word which means treasured, beautiful or valuable.
According to Guide to the Philippines, Kadayawan Festival was originally a thanksgiving celebration for a bountiful harvest, where Davao’s ethnic tribes honored nature by presenting dances, ceremonies, and displays of fruits, grains, and vegetables.
Local officials then promoted this cultural expression in the 1970s, and during the Martial Law era, the celebration (formerly known as Apo Duwaling) was used to bring the community together. In 1988, the event was officially renamed as Kadayawan and is still commemorated as a thriving cultural festival to this day.
When is the Kadayawan Festival held?
Every year, the Kadayawan Festival is usually held in mid August, precisely during the third week of the month. This year, carrying the theme “A Festival Rooting in Culture and Abundance,” the Kadayawan Festival is held from 8 to 31 August, with various thrilling events presented by 11 tribal houses lining up for a whole month.
Mandatory Attractions to see at Kadayawan Festival
1. Pag-Abli Sa Kadayawan
Officially marking the start of the Kadayawan Festival, an opening ceremony or Pag-abli Sa Kadayawan will take place at the Kadayawan Tribal Village, Magsaysay Park in the evening of August 8, 2025. Mark your calendars and be ready to witness the commencement of Davao city’s jubilee.
2. Pamulak sa Kadayawan Street Parade
What’s a festival without a spectacular flashy parade? In the morning of August 17, eye-catching floats will make their way through the city, bringing in the festive spirit. Be sure to clear your schedule for the day to experience this street parade because the grand showdown—the Indak-Indak sa Kadayawan street dancing competition—will be held in the evening at San Pedro Square from 5.00 to 1.00 PM.
3. Dula Kadayawan
Want to learn more about Davao’s traditional games? You can see Davao’s ethnolinguistic groups competing in traditional games live in the annual Dula Kadayawan event held at People’s Park from 7.00 AM to 5.00 PM on August 16, 2025. A total of 11 tribes will be participating in the event, which are the Ata, Sama, Kagan, Klata, Tausug, Iranun, Maranao, Maguindanaon, Obu-Manuvu, and the Bagobo-Tagawa tribe.
4. Bantawan Cultural Celebration
Bantawan Cultural Celebration demonstrates traditional music and dances, giving tourists a glimpse into Mindanao’s rich cultural heritage. You can check out this cultural event at Magsaysay Park and Bantawan Amphitheater on August 10 -12, starting from 4.00 to 8.00 PM.
5. Hiyas sa Kadayawan Cultural Presentation
Hiyas sa Kadayawan is highly-anticipated beauty pageant, where the flattering women of Davao will be showcasing their talents, charm, and insights on local culture. Scheduled on August 9 from 4.00 to 5.00 PM, the Hiyas sa Kadayawan Cultural Presentation is held at SM City Davao and Annex Event Center.
6. Food and Trade Fair
Looking for a place to munch on some local delicacies or shop for authentic souvenirs? No need to worry, you can always stop by the food and trade fair organized by this festival. Promoting Davao’s local business and gastronomy, the Food and Trade Fair at Kadayawan Festival offers an assortment of handicrafts, cuisines, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables.
7. Kadayawan Village
During the festival, the Kadayawan Village is set up in the city, providing visitors with insights about Davao’s diverse culture and indigenous tribes. This village is also the perfect spot for shopping local goods, since you can purchase it directly from the indigenous communities.
Tips for visiting the Kadayawan Festival
For those of you planning on visiting the festival, here are some tips you should keep in mind:
- Make sure to use sunscreen and don’t forget to stay hydrated in the summer heat by drinking plenty of water
- Obey the local rules, including the liquor ban and Anti-smoking ordinance.
- Be respectful to the local people. You can show appreciation by learning some simple greetings in Bisaya, such as Maayong adlaw (good day) and Daghang salamat (thank you).
- Plan your trip accordingly by listing the events you want to see beforehand and secure your transportation and accommodation in advance.
- Arrive early to get the best spot for crowded activities such as the Street Dance Competition and Street Float Parade.
From a gratitude ceremony to an annually celebrated event, Kadayawan Festival is a melting pot for Davao’s indigenous culture, bringing in not just locals, but also attracts visitors from across the region. Do note that the event schedule for this festival varies each year. For detailed information, it is advisable to check the fixed schedule beforehand on Kadayawan Davao’s official Facebook page.
