AweSM Cebu 2026 Brings Sinulog Spectacle to the Max Across SM Malls

Sinulog season kicks into high gear as AweSM Cebu 2026 takes over SM City Cebu, SM Seaside, and SM J Mall, delivering curated experiences that grow in energy, scale, and excitement as the festivities unfold. Designed for families, foodies, creatives, and fans, the three malls’ celebration transform everyday mall moments into a city-wide Sinulog gala.

At SM City Cebu, the energy reaches full, maxed-out festival mode, where shopping, spectacle, and star power take center stage. Festival enthusiasts can explore Sinulogtopia with Islands Souvenirs from January 3–28 at the Lower Ground of the Main Mall, while the immersive GLOW CITY: Sinulog Centerpiece at the North Wing Atrium sets the visual tone of the festivities from January 8–21. Catch the electric moves of the AweSM Glow Dance Competition on January 17 at the North Wing, and crowd excitement peaks with Coco Martin Live on January 17 at the Lower Ground of the Main Mall and the Kapuso Stars Mall Show on January 18 at the Main Mall.

Meanwhile, SM Seaside City Cebu anchors anticipation through meaningful and distinctly Cebuano experiences. The Sto. Niño Exhibit at the Cube Wing Atrium provides the spiritual heart of Sinulog from January 8–28, while shoppers can check-out the homegrown flavors at Nakakalokal Goes to SM Seaside from January 16–18 at the Mountain Wing Atrium, and the crowd-favorite AweSM Lechon Fest from January 12–18 at the Seaview Wing Atrium. Maxing out the star-studded energy, the Sinulog Kapamilya Caravan rolls into SM Seaside’s concert grounds on January 17, while fur parents also get their moment at AweSM Petstival on January 24 at the Mountain Wing Atrium.

At SM J Mall, the celebration opens on a reflective and artistic note. Vested in Devotion: Cebu’s Fashion in Faith exhibit runs from January 9–31 at The Atrium, Upper Ground, followed by Vested Devotion: Rhythms of Cebu on January 18, and culminating in Vested in Devotion: Runway Edition on January 31, highlighting the movement, music, and meaning behind Cebu’s devotion. Creative tribes can enjoy hands-on experiences through AweSM Mask Painting on January 10 at Kyureto Art Space, Second Level, while shoppers ease into the season with the AweSM Cebu Sale 2026 from January 12–18 at participating stores across SM J Mall, SM City Cebu, and SM Seaside.

The Sinulog spectacle reaches its ultimate high on January 18, as SM City Cebu’s ILLUMINIGHT:  Sinulog Drone & Pyro Show takes centerstage fronting the North Wing expansion building at 7PM, and SM Seaside City Cebu’s AweSM Skypark Grand Pyro Display light up the Cebu skyline at 9PM, delivering a breathtaking, city-wide finale built on maximum experiences that celebrate devotion, creativity, and festivity at its grandest.

About the AweSM Cebu Campaign

Launched in 2019, the AweSM Cebu campaign is SM’s signature celebration of Cebuano culture, creativity, and community, transforming malls into vibrant hubs of entertainment, local artistry, and family-friendly experiences every Sinulog season. Each year, the campaign combines shopping, culture, music, gastronomy, and innovative showcases, positioning SM Supermalls as the ultimate destination for both Cebuanos and visitors seeking immersive Sinulog festivities.  Over the years, AweSM Cebu has become a city-wide tradition that brings the many colors, rhythms, and flavors of the festival together—allowing everyone to experience the spirit of Sinulog under one roof. (SM Supermalls)

SM J Mall Illuminates the Holidays with “The Heart of Hikari”

Magical chapters unfold across SM Supermalls in the Visayas with Unwrapping Magical Christmas Tales

 

SM J Mall joins SM Supermalls in the Visayas in Unwrapping Magical Christmas Tales with its first ever Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, held on October 23, 2025, at The Atrium. Bringing a unique cultural touch to the celebration, SM J Mall presents Find the Christmas Glow at the Heart of Hikari — a theme inspired by the mall’s distinct Japanese concept. Standing 35 feet tall, the dazzling Christmas tree shines with Hikari, a Kokeshi Doll whose name means “light,” serving as a radiant centerpiece that embodies warmth, harmony, and holiday joy.

 

The Atrium shimmered as guests and spectators witnessed a new tradition come to life at SM J Mall. Visitors can Find the Christmas glow at the Heart of Hikari through festive experiences that bring the season’s magic to life. Mallgoers can stroll through the Hikari Lightscape and capture picture-perfect moments at the Hikari Snap Station from October 23, 2025, to January 4, 2026.  Families can experience Snap with Santa every Saturday of November and December, while soulful Holiday Harmonies performances fill the mall every Sunday of November and December.  Shoppers can also enjoy Holiday Everyday Deals across participating stores until December 2025, making each visit a delightful celebration of light, music, and holiday cheer.

SM continues its cherished holiday tradition through the Besties of Joy, adorable bunny plushies that spread warmth and cheer. For every Bestie purchased, another is given to a child in need, inspiring shoppers to share in the joy of giving.

And the story doesn’t end here — watch out as more unwrapping surprises await in the coming days. (SM Supermalls)

Savor Japanese Steaks at Yappari, Now at SM J Mall

At the heart of bustling Mandaue, SM J Mall welcomes Cebuanos to experience the best of everything that the city—and beyond—has to offer. Their array of globally-acclaimed offerings bring excitement to the city. This includes Yappari Steak, who brings the elegance of Japanese-style steak dining to Cebu’s discerning food lovers.

 

Rooted in the laid-back charm of Okinawa, the brand began in the southern islands of Japan, gaining popularity for its sizzling hot plates, generous portions, and high-quality beef. Today, it continues to blend Japanese precision with a warm, casual atmosphere that feels both refined and inviting.

From Okinawa to Mandaue, Cebuanos will get to indulge in high-quality meat only from Yappari Steak.

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or indulging in a leisurely meal, let this article guide you in finding out what Yappari Steak has to offer. Enjoy a premium yet approachable experience and have a taste of Okinawan hospitality right here where Cebu’s culinary scene is on the rise.

Juicy, meaty cuts that sizzle on a hot lava stone is what good meals are made of.

Yappari Steak is well-known for its tenderness and juicy bite beautiful marbling. Available in 100g, 150g, or 200g portions, it’s served sizzling on a hot plate to lock in the juices and aroma. Each order comes with a side of steamed rice and a comforting bowl of soup, making it a satisfying and well-balanced meal that showcases the signature taste of Japanese steak dining.

Karubi Steak offers the same rich flavor as the Yappari Steak, but comes conveniently sliced into strips for easier enjoyment.

On the other hand, their Karubi Steak offers a juicy rib finger cut, prized for its rich flavor and slightly chewy texture. Grilled to perfection and served sizzling hot on Yappari Steak’s signature lava stone, it’s available in 100g, 150g, or 200g portions to match your appetite. Each order is likewise paired with steamed rice and a warm bowl of soup, creating a hearty, satisfying meal that highlights the bold, beefy goodness of this Japanese-style favorite.

Sizzling and satisfying, their Hamburger Steak also delivers bold flavors in every bite.

The Hamburger Steak at Yappari is a succulent, juicy patty made from premium ground beef, seared to a delicious crust while remaining tender inside. Available in satisfying 200 g and hearty 400 g portions, it’s served sizzling hot and paired perfectly with steamed rice and a bowl of soup. This hearty dish offers bold, homey flavors with a gourmet twist, ideal for those seeking a richly satisfying meal.

Their Beef Curry Rice is rich, hearty, and packed with flavor—definitely comfort in a bowl.

Yappari Steak’s Beef Curry Rice delivers a fragrant, mildly spiced curry brimming with tender beef chunks, served alongside fluffy steamed rice for a comforting yet flavorful experience. Equally enticing is their Beef Stewed Tendon Rice: melt-in-your-mouth beef tendon slow-cooked in a savory broth until luxuriously gelatinous, served with a steaming bowl of rice to create a rich, heartwarming dish. Both options, paired with a bowl of soup, offer elevated takes on classic Japanese comfort food that is perfect for cozying up any meal.

A little lighter but just as flavorful, the Chicken Steak delivers all the goodness of Yappari Steak, with less of the guilt.

The Chicken Steak at Yappari is a tender and juicy grilled chicken leg quarter chicken fillet, perfectly seasoned and cooked until lightly charred and full of flavor. Served sizzling on a hot plate, it delivers a delightful balance of crisp edges and succulent interior. Served with steamed rice and a bowl of soup, this dish offers a lighter yet equally satisfying option, ideal for those seeking a flavorful protein-focused meal with less of the guilt.

Get your fill of premium meat right at the heart of Mandaue only here at Yappari Steak in SM J Mall.

The next time you find yourself wanting for a tender cut of steak, a hearty bowl of curry, or a comforting plate of grilled chicken, Yappari Steak at SM J Mall delivers a thoughtfully crafted dining experience that combines quality, value, and Japanese culinary flair. With generous portions, flavorful dishes, and an atmosphere that’s both relaxed and refined, it’s the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings be it for a quick lunch, a casual dinner, or a well-deserved indulgence. 

Yappari Steak is located on the Lower Ground of SM J Mall and welcomes guests Sunday to Thursday 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM & Friday to Saturday 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and X to stay updated with all the latest news and happenings here at SM Supermalls. You can also check the updated entry guidelines and mall hours for 2025 here. (SM Supermalls)