Dinagyang as seen from a foreigner’s eyes

IN Australia, it seems our biggest comparable festival is the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras (which is big — and hundreds of thousands of people watch the parade) — but this is obviously representing a relatively small section of the wider community.

Dinagyang was my first real Filipino festival — and what a wonderful experience it was!

I learned that there are a number of similar festivals around the country — all rooted in tribal traditions and now mixed with more recent Christian themes. I’d seen some photos over the years but nothing could create the atmosphere like being there on the street and seeing/feeling/hearing the people celebrate. And I believe that humans all need to express their desire for celebration.

This is one of those festivals which has evolved from a combination of ancient tribal and also more modern traditions. The origin of this style of festival seems to have come from an island nearby (closer to Boracay) — apparently it was initially about war, but now involves Saint Nino (pronounced ‘ninyo’ — the manifestation of the baby Jesus?) who represents peace...... go figure!

Suffice to say, lots of people have lots of fun and celebration — there’s dressingup (very ‘urban tribal’), drumming, dancing, drinking, plenty of colour and movement — and seemingly pretty good vibes all around...... oh, and of course eating! And these days, the necessary commercial element — but no-one seems to mind, and a good time was had by all.

Well, Dinagyang certainly allowed them to do that! The costumes, the drums, the dance routines, the black body paint, the painted faces — and the ubiquitous St. Nino in his many guises — all combined to create a spirit of joy.

Then there were the enthusiastic crowds — many of the kids sporting fake tattoos and masks etc. It was a real family affair too. Of course the sponsors were very present — as were the police — but it seemed like a peaceful happy event where all concerned had a great time.

At night, the streets were filled with revellers — entertained at various stages, with dancing in the street, and, in true Filipino style, with a huge food festival!

For my friend, a Filipino, it was also his first big festival, and we both had a totally enjoyable few days...... in all, a highly recommendable event!