DAVAO — The vibrant spirit of Kadayawan is flowing beyond the streets and into SM City Davao and SM Lanang Premier, which have extended their mall hours to welcome festival-goers. Visitors can now immerse themselves in the colors, flavors, and traditions of Davao’s grand harvest celebration a little longer each day.
A Festival of Colors and Community
Under the citywide theme “We are one, KadayaONE,” the malls have become cultural stages where the 11 ethnolinguistic tribes of Davao are celebrated. Vibrant installations and colorful decor transform the shopping centers into festive destinations. The theme draws from Banig sa Kagikan, the interwoven tapestry of heritage, symbolizing unity among Davao’s diverse communities.
Live performances fill the atriums with indigenous music and contemporary beats. Shoppers can witness traditional dances that honor the Ata, Bagobo, Maranao, and Tausug tribes. These free shows give locals and tourists alike a deeper appreciation of Mindanao’s living traditions, turning a simple mall visit into a cultural experience.
More Time to Shop, Dine, and Celebrate
Extended operating hours mean visitors can linger over dinner, browse late into the evening, and catch festival activities without rushing. SM City Davao and SM Lanang Premier have adjusted schedules to accommodate the surge of parade-goers and holiday shoppers. The added time also allows families to enjoy the malls after the heat of the day subsides.
The KadayaONE Sale offers price markdowns of up to 70 percent on retail and fashion items. Food courts and restaurants roll out festive dining promos featuring Dabawenyo street food and desserts. The malls become one-stop destinations where celebration, shopping, and dining blend seamlessly.
Savor Mindanao’s Bounty and Craftsmanship
A highlight of the celebration is the 12th Annual Durian Festival at SM Lanang Premier’s Fountain Area. Fresh durian, mangosteen, rambutan, marang, and lanzones are on display, giving visitors a true taste of the region’s harvest. Local growers and orchard owners share their produce, connecting consumers directly to the farms that feed the festival.
At SM City Davao’s Main Atrium, pop-up markets showcase artisanal chocolates, specialty coffee, and indigenous crafts. Kultura and other local brands offer handwoven textiles and brass ornaments. These pop-ups provide a platform for local entrepreneurs while giving visitors authentic souvenirs that carry the story of Davao.
A Celebration Rooted in Thanksgiving
Kadayawan is derived from the friendly Mandaya greeting “Madayaw,” meaning valuable, good, or beautiful. It is a celebration of life, a thanksgiving for nature’s gifts, rich culture, and bountiful harvests. What began as the Apo Duwaling Festival has evolved into a unifying event for all people of Davao.
The extended mall hours reflect the private sector’s support for city tourism and heritage promotion. By keeping doors open longer, SM Davao helps the festivities continue beyond the parades and into the evening. The result is a more inclusive celebration that welcomes everyone to experience the heart of Davao.
