A number of colourful events, feasts and celebrations take place in Davao around the year. See below what is the best fit to adjust the timing of your stay accordingly.
New Year among the Chinese community of Davao is celebrated with exhibits, temple visits and night markets and there are several movie screenings at the cultural centers of the city. This holiday in Davao is not lacking bustle.
The week-long celebration of the foundation of the city starts in mid-March and includes parades, fireworks and a military parade. Selection of Miss Davao happens on the 15th of March. The oneness of the multicultural city is exposed with praise and glory, and fun happenings such as a pop song writing contest and various sports competitions are being held during the festival.
Celebrated every third week of August, Kadayawan lasts seven days and can be considered as the thanksgiving for harvest time yield and the beauty of nature. The celebration takes place at the same time with the harvest time of exotic fruits and blooming of waling waling (orchid family of vanda sanderiana). Kadayawan is characterized by bright colours and abundant dancing. According to history, Davao's ethnic tribes would encounter and converge with each other during the bountiful harvest - and it all comes together at Kadayawan.
Christmas in Davao is filled with lighting and deocration, and performances take place throughout December. The community's creativity emerges in spectacular way and the atmosphere is exciting and festive.