The Sinulog Festival returns to Cebu South Road Properties in 2024.
Years ago, you probably wouldn’t have imagined seeing the Sinulog Festival anywhere other than the busy streets and highways in the heart of Cebu City.
The grandiose cultural festival creates a lively atmosphere you wouldn’t experience anywhere else. Sidewalks are filled with interested onlookers, and quiet neighborhoods ignite with street parties.
However, the Sinulog Festival was given a brand new backdrop in 2023, with its festivities being relocated to Cebu South Road Properties (SRP).
The venue transfer was met with mixed reactions, but millions of locals and tourists still attended the Street Parade and Grand Showdown. It was such a success that the Sinulog Foundation Inc. (SFI) is looking to relive that spark.
SFI has confirmed that the Sinulog Festival is officially returning to SRP this 2024.
You may already know what to expect if you attended the festival last year, but some will be experiencing it for the very first time.
Here is a list of what you need to know about the festival and its new venue.
HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF THE SINULOG FESTIVAL AT SRP
- Getting There
Despite the change of venue, crowds of people still flocked to Cebu South Road Properties for the festival.
You have several public transport options to go to SRP. The cheapest option is by taking a jeepney or taxi to Mambaling, then getting off below the fly-over. From there, you can walk to SRP.
If this is too tasking for you, a motorcycle taxi can take you a bit closer to the SRP highway.
To avoid foot traffic, private vehicles are rerouted to paved roads behind SM Seaside leading directly to the grandstand. There are also designated parking areas for both cars and motorcycles to give space for the crowds.
At the festival, you can expect a lot of walking, especially if you go further down the parade route.
- What to Bring
The best way to enjoy this cultural festival is to come prepared.
Unlike the old parade route, SRP has fewer areas to offer some shade. Prepare your baseball caps, umbrellas, and sunglasses to stay safe from the scorching heat. Don’t forget to bring sunblock too!
Consider wearing more comfortable clothes like light, flowy t-shirts to keep you cool.
Bring water with you to stay hydrated. A water bottle that is large enough to last the whole day would be ideal. You may find some street vendors selling water along the parade route as well.
Finally, make sure you have your phone ready despite the cell signal being off. Aside from using it to take selfies and photos of the festivities, you might also find areas with free wi-fi so you can contact people.
- Notable Landmarks
Since you’re at SRP, you need to know where you can get food, some shade, or essentials that you might need. Luckily, there are a few spots that offer these conveniences.
Your main landmark is the biggest shopping mall in the city, SM Seaside Cebu. There are dozens of establishments where you can relax or take a break from all the walking.
Hundreds of Cebuanos gathered at SM Seaside for the Sinulog Festival.
Since hundreds of locals and tourists will be taking part in the celebration, expect most SM Seaside restaurants to have long lines.
If you insist on getting food at SM Seaside, it may be best to order for take-out instead.
Another option would be IL Corso Lifemalls, which is closer to the grandstand and may have fewer people. It may be further from SM Seaside, but at least you’ll get to experience the festival by walking through the venue.
If you’re looking for budget-friendly options, there are stalls along the parade route offering local street food meals like barbecue skewers and puso. This is perfect for those thrifty travelers looking for something light to eat.
- And Most Importantly…
Street dance performers can be seen enjoying the Sinulog Festival.
Have fun! The Sinulog Festival is one of the biggest cultural festivals in the Philippines, with millions of devotees around the world looking to experience it. You will definitely enjoy the exciting dances, colorful floats, and celebrity sightings.
It’s an event that many on the island look forward to, regardless of where it is held. The venue may change, but the spectacle, excitement, and thrill remain the same.
This is one of the best times to visit Cebu, so you better make the most of it!
