Sinulog has finally returned in 2023! After not holding the events for 2 years due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the festival will restart where it left off and continue to be the Philippine’s most visited festival.
The Sinulog events officially kicked off during the new year’s celebration at SRP where a ball drop and crown rise followed by dazzling fireworks amazed spectators.
On January 5, 2023, the religious activities took place with the traditional Walk with Jesus which started from Fuente Osmeña all the way to Basilica del Sto. Niño at 4 in the morning for the Opening Salvo Mass in the said church. On the next day, January 6, 2023, there was a Sinulog 2023 Trade Fair in SM Seaside which showcased different Cebuano-based businesses and products. The event was organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
Some of the nightly activities also started on January 6 as it was the start of the nightly shows in Fuente Osmeña Circle and also the start of the Sinulog Idol singing competition. The contest will last until January 12, 2023 for the Grand Finals.
The Verve Sinulog Music Festival was held on the SM Seaside Concert Grounds which featured both local and national artists playing great music.
On January 8, 2023, the Cebu Marathon commences in SRP. The freeway will be closed off for the participants to run freely. Later in the afternoon at 1pm, youth from different schools will have a parade and then proceed to SRP grounds to show their outstanding performances.
On January 11, 2023, if you are a returning Filipino from abroad or a tourists wanting to experience the fun of the festivities, the Mactan Cebu International Airport will have a good surprise for you. The Miss Cebu Coronation night will be held in Nustar Resort and Casino.
On January 13, 2023, Sinulog Festival Queen Coronation Night will also be held in Nustar Resort and Casino. On the same day, the Cebu Pop Music Festival will be held in the UV Gym where you will hear local artists play songs in the Cebuano language.
On January 14, 2023, the Fluvial Procession will commence at 6:00 AM. Enjoy throngs of boats with various decorations to showcase the festivities. Later in the evening, the fireworks competition will dazzle you with various performances in the sky by competitors from all over the country. If party life is more of your taste, there will be a Party at the Parks both in Fuente Osmeña Circle and Plaza Independencia.
On January 15, 2023, the main event happens on this day. The Sinulog Grand Parade will be held in SRP where a procession of different floats featuring well-known personalities in the country. The evening will have the Grand Finale and Grand Fireworks on the SRP grounds so make sure not to miss it.