AweSM Iloilo 2026 Brings Dinagyang Celebration To The Max at SM City Iloilo

 

SM City Iloilo takes the lead this Dinagyang season as it brings together the city’s most anticipated celebrations in one central destination. As the Dinagyang celebration goes bigger and bolder, SM City Iloilo enjoins everyone to max out the experience with AweSM Iloilo 2026. 

Throughout the festival, SM City Iloilo stands as the natural hub of activities. From meeting up with family and friends to enjoying food trips, cultural showcases, and shared gala moments, locals and visitors alike find themselves at the heart of the celebration. With its central location and vibrant atmosphere, the mall offers an easy and accessible way to take part in Dinagyang while moving at one’s own pace.

 

A major highlight of the festival is the Dinagyang ILOmination Festival of Light Festivals 2026 on January 23 at 6:00 PM. Visitors get the best view and the most convenient locations along Diversion Road; SM City Iloilo draws crowds eager to witness illuminated performances and powerful choreography of five of the country’s most captivating light festivals in one magical spectacle.

 

Beyond the parade, a wide range of activities unfolds throughout the week. The Grand Iloilo Food Festival from January 22 to 25 at SM Southpoint celebrates Iloilo’s culinary creativity, inviting food lovers to explore local flavors and rediscover Ilonggo favorites, affirming Iloilo City’s title as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.

 

Visitors also get a chance to taste uniquely Ilonggo dishes from mall tenants showcasing their hero dishes of Ilonggo flavors—shoppers can as well go on an AweSM Iloilo Food Trip adventure, by riding the point-to-point shuttle buses for free at the mall’s transport bay, and experience the food offerings at the Iloilo Central and Terminal Markets and back.

The exhibit of the 2026 Dinagyang costumes give visitors the first glimpse of intricate and artistic pieces before the actual tribes’ competition. Furthermore, the Western Visayas Gastronomy and Creative Expo, running from January 19 to 25, offers a closer look at regional artistry, craftsmanship, and proudly local products.

From January 22 to 25, AweSM Street Scenes bring the festival energy to life with vibrant sights and interactive experiences that turn every corner into a celebration.

Families are in for a max celebration, with events such as the Grand PawSM Parade and Costume Contest, January 22, 3pm at SM Southpoint, adding lighthearted moments for pet lovers.

As day turns to night, the atmosphere shifts with the AweSM Street Party, bringing together live music, performances, and street culture.  

From January 23, the Dinagyang energy at SM City Iloilo intensifies with a full night of AweSM experiences at Southpoint. The evening kicks off with the Kapuso Mall Show at 8:00 PM bringing star power and crowd excitement to the celebration. At 9:30 PM, the sky lights up with the AweSM Pyro Display, adding a dazzling spectacle to the night.

The festivities keep rolling on January 24 as Dinagyang goes into full party mode at 11:00 PM with iconic dance group Sexbomb’s Rochelle Pangilinan at SM Southpoint. 

On January 25, music lovers are in for another exciting night as BDO presents Freestyle at 7:00 PM at SM Southpoint and a live performance by Orange and Lemons at 11:00 PM.

 

Adding color, creativity, and fan culture to the festival atmosphere, The AweSM Cosplay Fun Ramp and Parade runs from January 22 to 25, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at SM Southpoint. Cosplayers of all ages bring beloved characters to life, transforming the space into a vibrant parade of imagination, self-expression, and AweSM Dinagyang energy.

Offering shoppers the chance to enjoy Dinagyang while discovering great finds across the mall is the AweSM Festival Sale from January 19 to 25.

Complete your Dinagyang journey as all ways lead to SM City Iloilo--celebrate and enjoy Dinagyang to the max at your most-loved mall.

About the AweSM Iloilo campaign

Launched in 2019, the campaign combines shopping, culture, music, gastronomy, and innovative showcases, positioning SM Supermalls as the ultimate destination for both Ilonggos and visitors seeking immersive Dinagyang festivities. The campaign has grown into a city-wide tradition, bringing the many colors, rhythms, and stories of Dinagyang together, allowing everyone to experience the festival spirit under one roof. (SM Supermalls)

SM Prime nears completion of P2.3 Billion SM Iloilo Redevelopment

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) is on track to complete the P2.3 billion redevelopment of SM City Iloilo by the first quarter of 2026, in line with its broader push to transform its commercial properties into future-ready spaces that anchor regional growth.

Artist’s perspective of SM Iloilo North Block with the planned National University Tower set to open in 2027.

The investment includes the addition of over 7,900 square meters of gross leasable area (GLA) for the mall, over 23,670 square meters for the National University (NU), upgraded mall interiors, motion sensor escalators, an expanded skylight, a multi-level car park at the North Block and improved connectivity to the adjacent SM Strata, the tallest towers in Western Visayas and home to many IT-BPO companies.

“SM City Iloilo has been central to our growth and to the Ilonggo community,” said SM Prime president Jeffrey C. Lim. “This investment will help drive domestic tourism, strengthen MSMEs, and unlock the city’s full potential.”

Opened in 1999 at the height of the Asian Financial Crisis, SM City Iloilo was the eighth SM Supermall built by SM Prime. A series of expansions between 2009 and 2016 grew its GLA from 71,979 square meters to 106,307 square meters.

Guided by ‘All For You’ strategy, new zones for athleisure, entertainment and amusement are being introduced to support the mall’s evolving tenant mix and growing customer base, while enhancing the overall visitor experience and attracting increased foot traffic.

The introduction of new and exciting concepts—many of which are firsts in Iloilo—such as Game Park, Fantasy World, Decathlon, TGI Friday’s and Chili’s, is set to further strengthen SM City Iloilo’s position as the region’s leading retail and lifestyle destination.

“Sustainability is also a key part of this redevelopment,” said Lim. “We are integrating eco-efficient features, including rooftop solar panels and advanced daylighting systems, as part of our broader commitment to building a greener, more energy-efficient property portfolio.”

The presence of NU by 2027—located within the complex—is also expected to boost foot traffic and reinforce the mall’s multi-generational appeal.

Once completed, SM City Iloilo will feature expanded retail and dining offerings, welcoming new brands and lifestyle destinations that will further cement its position as the premier lifestyle mall in Western Visayas. (SM PRIME)

Discover the Enchantment of the Magic Meadow at SM City Iloilo

 

A touch of enchantment has arrived at SM City Iloilo as South Point transforms into a whimsical wonderland through the Magic Meadow, open from August 23 to September 14, 2025. This captivating installation invites mallgoers of all ages to step into a dreamy garden where blossoms bloom, fairies flutter to life, and reflections sparkle in every corner.

 

Far more than a visual treat, the Magic Meadow is designed as an immersive experience that stirs the imagination and inspires joy. Guests are encouraged to wander through the vibrant displays, pause to admire the artistry, and celebrate magical moments with loved ones.

 

To heighten the experience, SM City Iloilo has lined up a series of enchanting activities throughout the three-week showcase:

Live Enchanting Melodies – Fridays | 4PM–6PM
Captivating performances will fill the air with music, adding harmony to the garden’s charm.

Whimsical Art Workshop – Saturdays | 4PM–6PM
Creative souls can unleash their imagination by joining hands-on activities that bring art to life.

Fairies Meet & Greet – Sundays | 5PM–7PM
Families and children can delight in magical encounters with fairies roaming the meadow.

Garden Photo Challenge – August 23–September 14
Visitors are invited to capture their most magical snapshots within the garden for a chance to win exciting prizes.

 

With its unique blend of art, music, and interactive experiences, the Magic Meadow promises to transform South Point into Iloilo’s very own fairytale garden. Perfect for families, friends, and even solo explorers, it offers a rare opportunity to step away from the ordinary and into a world where magic truly blooms.

The Magic Meadow is available for a limited time only, so guests are encouraged to visit and discover the wonder waiting at South Point, SM City Iloilo. (SM Supermalls)

Dinagyang 2025: The best of Iloilo at the centerstage

The vibrant city of Iloilo is ready to welcome visitors for the much-anticipated Dinagyang Festival 2025. Known for its unique fusion of tradition and modernity, the festival promises a showcase of Ilonggo culture, craftsmanship, and culinary heritage. Derived from the Hiligaynon word for revelry, “Dinagyang” embodies the spirit of joy and celebration.

Dinagyang Festival has earned its reputation for impressive choreography, colorful costumes, and cultural significance. This year, the festival went beyond performances, offering a wide array of events at SM City Iloilo.

With its “AweSM Iloilo” tagline, SM City Iloilo served as the centerstage of the Dinagyang 2025 festivities, which delivered unforgettable experiences for locals and tourists alike.

The Dinagyang celebration kicked off on January 15 with the special screening of Cande’ at SM Cinema 3. The highly anticipated Ilonggo film is Directed by the award-winning Ilonggo filmmaker and UPV Professor, Mr. Kevin Piamonte, and produced by Atty. Jobert Peñaflorida and Ms. Rhea Peñaflorida.

On January 17, the Dinagyang tRAIbaho PESO Job Fair 2025 took place at the Event Center with 97 local companies, 14 BPOs, and 9 international firms offering exciting career opportunities. A total of 3,451 applicants were interviewed, with 2,566 qualifying, 1,545 selected for further interviews, and 220 hired on the spot.

The Dinagyang Fun Ride then followed on January 18, at South Point from 5:00 AM to 9:00 AM participated by almost 500 riders.

From January 19 to 26, visitors explored the AweSM Iloilo Dinagyang Festival Costumes Exhibit at the Event Center. Simultaneously, the AweSM Tourism Booth at North Point and the AweSM Festival Sale mallwide also had its run during the same period. The Best of Iloilo Fair was also opened at both the Event Center and North Point during these dates.

The festival continued with the Dinagyang Arnis Competition at Cyberzone from January 23 to 25, while meet-and-greet and parades with the Dinagyang Warriors happened daily from January 23 to 26 around the mall, between 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

Culinary highlights include the Grand Iloilo Food Festival, the Batchoy Festival, and the South Point Party, all happened at South Point from January 23 to 26, from 2:00 PM to 12:00 AM. Highlighting Iloilo’s reputation as a gastronomic haven, the Grand Iloilo Food Festival and Batchoy Festival delighted food enthusiasts, offering a delectable showcase of the region’s culinary excellence.

From January 23 to 27, visitors also enjoyed the Music and Arts Festival at South Point from 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM, showcasing vibrant performances and creative displays.

The Dinagyang ILOmination Grand Opening took place on January 24 at the mall façade at 7:00 PM. SM City Iloilo became the prime venue and main judging area of the event.  A Grand Fireworks Show also lighted up the sky on January 25 at South Point at 9:00 PM. The celebration culminated on January 26 with a star-studded South Point Party, featuring performances by Darren Espanto and Horizon along with other artists from 2:00 PM to 12:00 AM.

Mayor Jerry P. Treñas assured that this year’s Dinagyang prioritized safety and inclusivity. With no signal jamming and enhanced security measures, together with the Philippine National Police and Philippine Army, the city committed to creating a secure environment for everyone. “I trust in the capability of our police force to uphold safety and order without the need for signal jamming.”, said Treñas.

Dinagyang 2025 is a celebration of Ilonggo resilience, creativity, and unity. With the community and key partners like SM City Iloilo, coming together, Iloilo City became a hub for celebration and festivities. (SM Supermalls)