Dinagsa Festival 2026 in Cadiz City Philippines

Every January, as the new year unfolds with hope and promise, Cadiz City in Negros Occidental, bursts into life with one of the most vibrant and heartfelt celebrations in the Philippines — the Dinagsa Festival. Today, January 25, 2026, the city reaches the peak of its annual festivities, a jubilant expression of faith, culture, and shared joy that brings families, friends, and visitors together in a kaleidoscope of colors and laughter. Highlights of event is being celebrated on every last Sunday of the month.

A Festival Born of Tradition and Blessings

The Dinagsa Festival is rooted in the deep devotion of Cadiznons to Señor Sto. Niño (the Holy Child) — a symbol of faith and protection. Over the decades, this celebration has evolved into a living tapestry of heritage, honoring both spiritual gratitude and the dynamic spirit of community.

Its name comes from the Hiligaynon word “dagsa,” meaning to flock or gather — a beautiful metaphor for how people from near and far come together in unity and thanksgiving during this special time of year.

The Heartbeat: Lamhitanay sa Dalan — Paint, Dance, and Joy

One of the festival’s most unforgettable highlights is “Lamhitanay sa Dalan” — a vibrant street celebration where revelers splash and smear one another with harmless, water-based paint. What looks like playful merrymaking is in fact a vivid symbol of connection and equality: in the swirl of colors, every person becomes part of the collective story of joy.

From toddlers to grandparents, locals and visitors joyfully participate in this spontaneous paint party, turning the streets into a living canvas of friendship and fun. It’s a reminder that celebration doesn’t just happen — it’s created together, in every laugh shared and every brush of color across smiling faces.

Beyond the paint and festivities, Dinagsa’s schedule over recent weeks has showcased community vitality through concerts, cultural showcases, sporting events, and the beloved Dinagsa Queen Coronation which was held yesterday January 23, 2026— where ambassadors of grace and resilience embody the spirit of Cadiz City. This year's Dinagsa Queen 2026 is Assia Jean Ur- Rehman.

These activities highlight what makes Dinagsa truly meaningful: celebrating togetherness, honoring heritage, and creating memories that resonate long after the last beat of the drum and the final drop of paint.

For travelers and festival lovers, the Dinagsa Festival is much more than a date on the calendar — it is an immersive experience in Filipino cultural pride. It’s about the rhythms of drums echoing through sun-dappled streets, the aroma of local delicacies being shared with new friends, and the warm smiles of a community welcoming everyone to join in heart and spirit.

In a world where shared moments sometimes feel rare, Dinagsa stands as a joyful testament to the fact that festivals aren’t just celebrated, they’re lived.

source: Bilis Cadiz Ugyon Cadiznon Fb