In Cebu, the religious festivities don't end with Christmas in December. Thanks to the Sinulog Festival, Cebuanos and culturally curious visitors can continue celebrating in the capital throughout January. But what’s this grand event actually about? Learn more about one of the biggest festivals in the Philippines, its historical significance, and what to expect as a first-time festivalgoer.

The annual Sinulog Festival in Cebu marks Christianity's arrival in the Philippines. As the story goes, explorer Ferdinand Magellan gifted the image of the Santo Niño to Cebu's queen at her baptism in 1521. Later, the king's advisor began dancing gleefully after the Santo Niño supposedly cured him. Today, dancing is integral to "Sinulog," which roughly translates to "like water current movement," characterizing the signature steps of the religious dance ritual.

The exact Sinulog Festival date changes yearly, but it always happens on the third Sunday of January. The Cebuano people, alongside thousands of travelers from around the world, flock to the capital in commemoration. They dress in bright costumes and dance in the streets while chanting, "Pit Senyor,” a Cebuano phrase expressing devotion to the Santo Niño.

Make the most of your trip by participating in these wow-worthy activities in the heart of Cebu City.

The dance parade is the centerpiece of the occasion, combining religious devotion and festive energy with every movement. You’ll see performers wearing intricate Sinulog Festival costumes adorned with cultural motifs that honor the province's rich history. Then, come nightfall, dazzling fireworks light up the sky to end the celebration on an electrifying note.

The Sinulog 2025 Grand Parade starts at 9 a.m. on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at Cebu City Sports Center. The event concludes with the grand finale and fireworks display at 7 p.m. Visit the Sinulog Foundation Inc.’s official Facebook page for a complete list of events, and watch out for updates.

Partying on the streets with locals and tourists alike is a one-of-a-kind cultural immersion. Dance to the thumping music, gaze at the colorful banderitas, and get lost in the festivities. Sinulog street parties are a space for camaraderie and celebration, exemplifying good old-fashioned Filipino hospitality.

Gain a deeper understanding of the festival's cultural significance by visiting the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu. It's the oldest Roman Catholic Church in the Philippines, housing the same Santo Niño the Sinulog Festival honors yearly. Near the Basilica, you'll find Magellan's Cross—another must-see for history buffs.

Are you eager to learn more about Cebu? Head to the Rizal Memorial Library and Museum, a 15–20-minute drive from the Basilica. It's a public library and heritage site where you can peruse thousands of books and marvel at the preserved creations of various Cebuano artists and families.

Any trip to Cebu inevitably doubles as a food crawl. You can't leave without sampling the best of their cuisine, especially if it's your first time. Must-eats include succulent lechon, crispy chicharon, and sutukil, a medley of seafood prepared three ways. Check out this Cebu guide for an in-depth look into the capital's top restaurants.

Follow these smart traveler tips to minimize stress during your trip.

The festival attracts thousands of visitors in January, so accommodations and flights quickly fill up. Book ASAP to beat the rush, avoid price hikes, and score better deals. Use platforms like Klook to get even greater discounts on Cebu’s top hotels.

This yearly event has lots to offer, and having a structured plan gives you the best chance of experiencing everything. Prepare a spreadsheet with activities you don't want to miss, along with their venues and time. Call restaurants to book a table and avoid long wait times during peak hours.

Huge gatherings mean lots of sweat and body heat. So, wear breathable clothes you can dance in and get dirty. Slip into your comfiest shoes if you plan to walk from venue to venue. When surrounded by strangers in crowded areas, keep your belongings close and prioritize your safety.

The parades take place in the sweltering heat, so don't forget to drink lots of water to prevent dehydration. This is especially true if you plan on sipping some alcohol during the parties. Layer on sunscreen and re-apply every few hours; otherwise, you'll go home with a nasty sunburn.

Follow the Sinulog Foundation Inc. and Cebu City Public Information office on Facebook for regular updates on the Sinulog Festival and its key events. Stay in touch with your companions, get directions via Google Maps, and keep your location services on, just in case.

If you're a prepaid subscriber, ensure you always have data on the go by registering for Globe prepaid promos on the GlobeOne App, which you can easily download from the App Store or Google Play.

Join Globe’s exciting activities and access exclusive offers to complete your Sinulog experience. Kickstart your festivities at Mactan–Cebu International Airport from January 12 to 17 to enjoy live cultural performances by Sinulog Queens and drumbeaters, plus grab exclusive Sinulog pouches when you purchase Globe Prepaid SIMs or reload worth ₱500 and above. The first 100 participants to download and register on the GlobeOne app each day will receive bonus Rewards Points!

The celebration continues at Ayala Center Cebu from January 17 to 19, where you can join interactive activities and win prizes. Answer a quick survey at the Activity Center to earn a chance to take home an iPhone 16. You can also visit the Swag Station, where Globe Rewards Points let you create personalized keepsakes.

On January 19, get ready for an epic musical evening at the Ayala Center Cebu Terraces. The Sinulog G Music Fest will feature a fantastic lineup of artists like Denise Julia, syd hartha, Shoti, and Mandaue Nights, delivering electrifying performances from 6 p.m. until midnight.