The vibrant city of Cadiz in Negros Occidental has officially launched its much-loved cultural and religious celebration. The 52nd Dinagsa Festival commenced on Friday, January 16, 2026, and will fill the city with joy until January 26, as announced by Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr.
A Festival of Breakthroughs and Unwavering Faith
Mayor Escalante emphasized that the Dinagsa Festival is engineered to avoid monotony, promising fresh experiences for returning visitors and first-time tourists. He framed the event as a dynamic tribute to the city's patron. "Every year, Dinagsa is a festival of many breakthroughs. We ensure revelers always have something new to anticipate," the Mayor stated. He affirmed that the celebration of their faith in Sr. Sto. Niño de Cadiz and His blessings would never be dull, with numerous surprises prepared to amaze attendees.
The opening day lived up to this promise, starting with a powerful bang through the Patikanay drumbeating competition. The festival's diverse lineup immediately unfolded, featuring sports events, cultural showcases, and exhibitions highlighting local agriculture and fishery. Celebrity concerts added to the festive atmosphere, setting a high-energy tone for the days ahead.
Highlight Events: From Paralympiada to the Colorful Chaos
A cornerstone of this year's schedule is the Paralympiada, a special fiesta dedicated to children with special needs. Scheduled before the Miss Dinagsa pageant, this event will gather Special Education (Sped) schools from across the Negros Island Region and Panay Island. Mayor Escalante noted that this heartfelt tradition, spearheaded by the Department of Education-Division of Cadiz, has been a part of Dinagsa for over twenty years.
The much-anticipated Miss Dinagsa 2026 coronation pageant is set for January 23. The mayor shared that the city will crown a new queen who personifies not just Cadiz's beauty but also its resilient spirit.
The festival's climax arrives on January 25 with two major events. The Dinagsa Street Dance Competition will showcase vibrant cultural performances. This will be followed by the iconic "Lamhitanay sa Dalan," famously branded as the "colorful street chaos." This unique event sees hundreds of thousands of participants joyfully dousing each other with safe, non-toxic paints. Mayor Escalante proudly claims this as Dinagsa's distinctive identity. "This is unique. This is people’s convergence. This is unity. This is ours. This is Cadiz," he declared.
A Celebration Rooted in Devotion and Gratitude
Religious observances remain central to the festival. A fluvial parade at Banquerohan Port will draw Sto. Niño devotees, continuing a religious tradition upheld for more than five decades. The festival will formally conclude on January 26 with the Misa Fiesta, a concelebrated mass at the Sto. Niño Parish Church.
For Mayor Escalante and the people of Cadiz, Dinagsa transcends mere revelry. "Above all, Dinagsa is not just a celebration, it is also a way of strengthening and sustaining our faith in the Child Jesus, the Sr. Sto. Niño de Cadiz, our great protector and our great provider," he reflected. He attributed the city's progress to divine grace, stating, "Cadiz will never be progressive as it is today without Sr. Sto. Niño. We owe Him a lot. Without Him, we have no Dinagsa."
With its mix of devout tradition, inclusive events, and uniquely chaotic fun, the 52nd Dinagsa Festival promises to be an unforgettable 11-day experience in the heart of Negros Occidental.
