The Sinulog Festival is an annual cultural and religious festival held in Cebu City,

Philippines, usually on the third Sunday of January. The festival is one of the most popular
and vibrant celebrations in the country, attracting both local and international tourists. Here
are some key features of the Sinulog Festival:

1. **Religious Origin:** The Sinulog Festival is deeply rooted in the country's religious
history. It is a celebration in honor of the Santo Niño (Child Jesus), who is considered the
patron saint of Cebu.

2. **Dance and Processions:** The highlight of the festival is the grand street parade
featuring participants in colorful costumes dancing to the rhythm of drums, trumpets, and
other traditional Filipino musical instruments. The Sinulog dance is characterized by a two-
steps-forward, one-step-backward movement, symbolizing the flow of the river.

3. **Fluvial Parade:** Before the main street parade, there is a fluvial procession where
the image of the Santo Niño is carried on a boat, accompanied by devotees, fishermen, and
participants on smaller boats.

4. **Pit Señor!:** The phrase "Pit Señor!" is often heard during the festival. It is a
Cebuano phrase that roughly translates to "Hail, Lord!" and is a popular chant during the
Sinulog, expressing the people's devotion to the Santo Niño.

5. **Novena Mass:** The festival is preceded by a novena, a series of nine days of prayer
and religious activities, leading up to the grand procession and street dancing on the final
day.

6. **Contingent and Float Competitions:** Various contingents from different barangays

(neighborhoods) and cities in Cebu, as well as other parts of the Philippines, participate in
the Sinulog Grand Parade, showcasing their creativity and talent through dance and colorful
costumes.

7. **Cultural Shows and Competitions:** Aside from the religious and street dancing
events, there are also cultural shows, competitions, and other festivities held throughout
the Sinulog Festival week.

The Sinulog Festival is not only a religious celebration but also a cultural event that
promotes unity and showcases the rich history and traditions of the Philippines. It is a time
when people come together to celebrate their faith, heritage, and sense of community.