It’s too early to enjoy another summer season because it’s already over. However, when the Grand Regal Hotel in Lanang had a Wet and Wild Pool Party, it did something just like that. It was their way of commemorating the German folk celebration known as Oktoberfest, which has its roots in Munich.
“We hold events in recent years where our venues were filled to the rim,” said Domini Sebastian del Rosario, the hotel’s marketing communications officer. “Each year, we keep on surpassing expectations.”
One of such occasions was Oktoberfest. It ceased holding such an event because of the epidemic that hit the country in 2020. This year, it finally heeded the “dire demand” to hold Oktoberfest.
The event was held on the fifth floor of the hotel, where the swimming pool is located. Near the pool is the Glass House, the hotel’s newest function venue. It was here that the dinner was held.
Eating Bavarian cuisine (sauerkraut, gherkins, grilled sausages, German pretzels) that evoked the atmosphere of Oktoberfest and Filipino favorites (grilled pork belly, chicken barbeque, buffalo chicken wings, mashed and baked potatoes, and steamed rice) to cater to local tastes, the guests and tourists were having a great time.
Grand Regal prepared not only sumptuous food but total entertainment as well. There were the live acoustics sessions with the Duchess in Throne, an all-female Davao-based band composed of four members: Joy Ibanez, vocalist; Ann Redondo, lead guitarist; Aira Landero, bassist; and Jodi Tarranza, drummer. In the middle of the party, Davao City Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre provided a special number singing “Jopay.”
Live party music mixes were supplied by DJ Torch and his crew. For many years, they have served as the Davao party circuit’s DJs. The crowd was energized and practically going wild due to the throbbing beats played by the DJs.
The event was made more kaleidoscopic and unforgettable by the flashing strobes that matched each beat drop and colors that moved to the beat. From Madonna to Abba to other popular singers, the selection of the songs transformed the occasion from a simple musical performance to a memorable celebration.
Event hosts, dancers and party girls also added the thrill in various fun games with some prizes, of course.
The production was headed by the well-known events director, Arnold Alvarez. Also present during the event was Jennifer Romero, the city tourism officer, and Violeta B. Casianan, the hotel’s general manager.
Casino Filipino was the event’s co-presenter. Among the sponsors were Swiss Deli and Floral Pink Designs.
