Davao City to light up streets and parks as Pasko Fiesta 2026 opens December 1

Davao City will open Pasko Fiesta 2026 on December 1 at Rizal Park, with plans to decorate major streets, parks and public spaces so residents can feel the holiday season in their own communities, according to Edge Davao.

Willenito P. Tormis Jr., officer-in-charge of the City Tourism Operations Office (CTOO), told the media on Thursday that the opening will coincide with the lighting of Christmas decorations at City Hall and other areas. It will also launch the Pasko Fiesta fair at the Rizal Park open grounds, where admission is free every day until December 25.

This year's theme is "One Light, One Heart, One City." Tormis said the goal is to spread the celebration across Davao rather than keep it concentrated downtown. The city government is installing more Christmas lights along major roads and in public parks, and is encouraging barangays and private establishments to put up their own decorations. The CTOO is also running a Christmas decoration contest among private establishments.

Among the headline attractions is Euro Circus, which returns after two years and will stage shows along the Davao City Bypass Coastal Road following a run in General Santos City. Tormis said the city is working with the private sector to arrange a day when all Dabawenyos can watch the circus for free.

The cultural competitions are also expanding. Banda Dasig will feature 50 groups from across Mindanao and from Davao City schools, up from more than 30 last year. Koro sa Pasko is expected to have around 30 to 40 groups, nearly double last year's more than 20. Tormis said the higher turnout reflects public enthusiasm for the city's festivals.

A new addition is the DC Pasko Fiesta Run on December 20 along the Coastal Road. Tormis said the event is part of Mayor Sebastian "Baste" Duterte's push to include wellness and fitness activities in major city festivals and to promote wellness tourism among Dabawenyos and other Mindanao residents. He added that the city is preparing other sporting events, including trail activities and Ironman, to offer activities throughout the year.