About 40-minute drive, 20 kilometers south of Cebu City, found the prosperous and growing City of Naga. Known by many for its events and festivities, the city is often visited by people from various places. Naga still has a lot to offer for people to enjoy. Exploring the city is certainly worth it.
As a Nagahanon, here are some of my personal picks of what you should look forward to when you visit the City of Naga. This shortlist is also my basis when I have family and friends who visit Naga and want to explore and experience the city. Always remember, the following are just some, there are still a lot for you to discover!
1. Dagitab Festival
Celebrated every December, Dagitab Festival (Festival of Lights) is definitely the pride of City of Naga. Dagitab features world-class dance performances from various schools within the city. From the term “dagitab” which means “light”, the contestants make use of several illuminations embedded in their costumes and props. This makes their dance routines spectacular and breathtaking.
2. Boardwalk
Located just a few meters from the highway, the Naga Boardwalk is something you should not miss. It closely resembles the famous boardwalk in Singapore. A perfect place for bonding with your family and friends. The boardwalk instantly became a favorite. It features a panoramic view of the sea where the Bohol Island is also visible. People often gather here after school or work, especially during weekends.
3. Mt. Naupa
Mt. Naupa, the highest peak of City of Naga is ideal for seasoned hikers and even beginners. It has a great camping site for staying overnight. Needless to say, it is a good choice for a quick escape from Cebu City’s busy streets as well as stressful work. Aside from that, watching both sunrise and sunset is also possible together with stargazing at night.
4. Belen Festival
Officially starts on December 8 Opening Salvo, the Belen Festival is an annual competition joined by companies and organizations from City of Naga. Participants setup their own versions of the Nativity Scene using recycled materials with the touch of their products or services. These Belen versions are centered to a theme which recently was “Naga to the World”. It featured top tourist attractions-inspired Nativity Scenes.
5. Concerts
Mainly during Annual Fiesta and Charter Day celebration, the country’s famous artists and bands perform on the stage at the Ocean Park. Some of them were Bamboo, December Avenue, Sponge Cola, Silent Sanctuary, Yeng Constantino and Parokya ni Edgar. People from different places outside the city come to enjoy these live performances.
6. Sports Facilities
Being well-equipped with high-class sports facilities, the City of Naga was chosen as the host of the Central Visayas Regional Athletic Association(CVIRAA) Meet for two years (2016-2017) in a row. The most outstanding facilities are the Olympic-sized athletic pool, track and field oval, and the recently added bowling alley which are open for public use.
7. Food
With Naga’s food court, food avenue, food park, food-stalls, fast-food and restaurants, you surely could have a feast of food-trips around the city. From the country’s popular fast-food chains, native restaurants, to local food vendors and favorite Filipino street-foods all your cravings can be satisfied. Best enjoyed with your family and friends!
Special Mention: The People
Nagahanons are warm-welcoming people. I can see my friends who are natives of Naga being treasured and cherished by their friends from neighboring cities. The people of City of Naga are easy to be with, fun, caring, thoughtful, and will treat you like a family. Be sure to have at least one Nagahanon friend!
TimTreks 