Cadiz Opens 50th Dinagsa Festival Celebration

Colors, sounds, and crowds will take over as the 50th Dinagsa Festival kicks off its grand opening celebration on Monday, January 20.

The festivities will begin with a motorcade around the city at 3 p.m., energizing the streets and signaling the much-anticipated festival’s start.

The grand opening program will officially commence at 4 p.m., featuring captivating mob dance performances designed to surprise and entertain attendees.

At 6 p.m., the Patikanay Drumbeating Competition will showcase the rhythmic and creative prowess of eight competing groups, elevating the festival’s vibrant spirit.

Simultaneously, the Department of Education (DepEd) will host “DepEd Night” at Cadiz Arena to honor educators and students for their contributions to the community.

A spectacular fireworks display will light up the Cadiz City sky at 7 p.m., adding color and excitement to the evening.

Following the fireworks, Batukada de Negros, a renowned percussion ensemble, will lead a dynamic performance, bringing Samba and Latin music to life.

The day will conclude with a lively street party featuring DJ Manic Ritmo.

Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr. invited everyone to experience the vibrancy of the Dinagsa Festival, set to conclude on January 26 with the traditional “lamhitanay.”

Escalante highlighted that the festival, held in honor of the city’s patron, Señor Sto. Niño de Cadiz, uniquely blends faith, devotion, and tourism promotion.

Pre-Opening Activities

Ahead of the grand opening, several exciting events were held.

The 10th Ultimate Dinagsa Frisbee Tournament, Dinagsa 2025 Airsoft Competition: Operation Paul 3, and the Dinagsa Supermoto/Grand Prix took place on January 11.

The Duathlon Challenge followed on January 12.

On January 13, the Fiesta Fair (Kadiwa Center) launched at the Cadiz Food Park, offering a vibrant marketplace for agri-fishery products. The fair will run until January 19.

The Friendly Tennis Tournament with the San Carlos Tennis Club, the Dr. Vicente F. Gustilo Memorial National High School Alumni Homecoming, the Dinagsa Chess Festival, and the 30-Under SK Inter-Barangay Basketball Tournament 2025 were held on January 17 and 18.

January 19 featured the Dinagsa Fun Run, Kiddie Bike Race, Invitational Boxing Tournament, and the Villacin National High School Alumni Homecoming.

The 50th Dinagsa Festival promises a perfect mix of tradition, music, and community spirit, ensuring a memorable week of cultural festivities.

“So come and experience Cadiz, the land of many splendid opportunities,” Escalante said.