Every third Sunday of January, millions of people flock to Cebu City for a day filled with paint parties, colorful parade floats, and religious processions—all in honor of the Santo Niño de Cebu, a statue given to Rajah Humabon by the explorer Magellan when he arrived at the shores of Cebu.

The festivities are well under way, but there’s still time to join the celebration and experience everything Cebu has to offer!

Make the most out of your stay with our recommended places to see, food to eat, and parties to attend.

STAY

Crown Regency Hotel and Towers

Osmeña Blvd., Cebu City

Photo courtesy of Asiatravel

One of the tallest buildings along the parade route, it’s the perfect spot for those who want to view the parade without having to mix in with the crowd.

Azia Suites & Residences

8 Rahmann Extension, Cebu City

Photo courtesy of Azia Suites

This hotel is just a few meters away from the parade route, and perfect for those who want to be near the festivities but still enjoy some peace and quiet.

EAT

Cebu Lechon

Photo courtesy of Crimson Hotel

When visiting Cebu, you can’t miss the famed lechon. Try local favorites Zubuchon or Rico’s; there have been heated debates about which one is better.

Enye by Chele Gonzalez takes it to the next level with their Lechon Cebu Tacos (soft tacos topped with lechon bites, mango salsa, and jalapeño cream).

Sutukil

Photo courtesy of The Hungry Chef

Sutukil is a seafood dish made three ways. The name is a combination of the three different styles: “SU” (“Sugba” or “to grill”), “TU” (“Tuwa” or “to stew”), and “KIL” (“Kilaw” or “Eating raw”). Try it out at the Isla Sugbo Seafood City.

VISIT

Cebu City Heritage Tour

Photo courtesy of The Home of Cebu

Travel back in time and visit Cebu’s famous landmarks and historical sites such as the Parian Monument, Magellan’s Cross, and the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño. This all-day tour is perfect for history buffs and city explorers.

Sirao Flower Farm

Photo courtesy of Perfumed Red Shoes

Located 30 to 45 minutes away from the city proper, Cebu’s “Little Amsterdam” boasts of fields with colorful flowers like hyacinths, daffodils, and tulips, making it a perfect backdrop for a group photoshoot.

PARTY

LifeDance (January 19, 2018)

Citi de Mare, SRP, Cebu City

Photo courtesy of Diji Teves via y101fm

The LifeDance Festival 2018 features local and international electronic dance music sensations like Arty, Yellow Claw, and Deuce Manila for a night of revelry, dancing, and all-out partying.

Plus63 (January 20, 2018)

Cebu Business Park

Photo courtesy of Plus63 Music and Arts Festival via Facebook

The Plus63 Festival brings together the best international musicians, artists, and chefs. This year, the music lineup includes Dutch EDM duo Showtek and the 2016 NMR Plur Awards’ Best Male DJ, Marc Marasigan.