Iloilo's festival season runs from January to early March, starting with Dinagyang, one of the most celebrated festivals in the Philippines. Hotels fill up fast in these weeks, so book early.
Dinagyang Festival
When: Fourth weekend of January. The 2027 main day is Sunday, January 24.
Dinagyang honors the Santo Niño (the Holy Child) and recalls the legendary pact between the Malay settlers and the Ati, Panay's first people. Held since 1968, it is famous for its "tribes": large groups of dancers in body paint and elaborate costumes, performing to the thunder of massed drums.
The festival builds over the whole month, with novena masses, a fluvial procession on the Iloilo River, street dancing, food fairs and the Miss Iloilo pageant. For 2027, organizers say the tribes competition returns to the streets of City Proper, with 10 tribes confirmed.
Tips: Buy grandstand tickets in advance for the best views. Wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and keep valuables close in the crowds.
Fiesta de Candelaria (Jaro Fiesta)
When: February 2
The feast of Our Lady of the Candles, patroness of Jaro and Western Visayas, is one of the country's grandest fiestas. Expect processions around Jaro Cathedral, the blessing of candles, a fiesta queen, and a carnival around Jaro Plaza.
Paraw Regatta Festival
When: Late February to early March. The main race in 2026 was held on March 1.
First held in 1973, the Paraw Regatta is billed as the oldest traditional sailing event in Asia. Dozens of paraw, double-outrigger sailboats with brightly painted sails, race across the Iloilo Strait between Villa Arevalo beach and Guimaras. The week includes sail-painting contests, a slalom race, a seafood festival and street dancing.
Chinese New Year
When: January or February
Iloilo has a long Chinese-Filipino heritage, especially in Molo and downtown. Celebrations include dragon and lion dances, fireworks and food fairs.
Iloilo City Charter Day
When: August 25
The city marks the anniversary of its 1937 charter with civic parades and cultural events.
Year at a glance
| Month | Event | Where |
|---|---|---|
| January | Dinagyang Festival (fourth weekend) | City Proper |
| January–February | Chinese New Year | Molo and downtown |
| February | Fiesta de Candelaria (Feb. 2) | Jaro |
| Late February–early March | Paraw Regatta | Villa Arevalo |
| March–April | Holy Week processions and church visits | Citywide and heritage towns |
| August | Iloilo City Charter Day (Aug. 25) | Citywide |
| December | Christmas lights, simbang gabi, Dinagyang opening (Pamukaw) | Citywide |
Exact dates change every year. Check the Iloilo Festivals Foundation and the City Tourism and Development Office for final schedules.