One of the biggest highlights of the Kadayawan Festival 2026 is set for a historic change this year as the grand showdown of Indak-Indak sa Kadayawan will be staged for the first time at the Davao Coastal Road–Tulip Drive on August 16, according to the City Tourism Operations Office (CTOO).
CTOO said the move aims to give thousands of spectators a larger venue to witness the city’s premier street dancing spectacle.
For years, the grand showdown has been held at San Pedro Square. While the street dancing competition will continue along its traditional route from Roxas Avenue to San Pedro Square, the final performances and awarding ceremony will now take place at the Davao Coastal Road.
CTOO Officer-in-Charge Willenito P. Tormis Jr. said the move was made in response to public demand for a bigger venue that can accommodate more spectators and showcase the festival on a larger scale.
“We’ve been working on this for months, and finally, we can announce that for the first time ever, we are bringing the glory of Indak-Indak sa Kadayawan to the Davao Coastal Road,” Tormis said.
He added that relocating the grand showdown had been one of his goals since assuming office earlier this year.
“When I started last January, one of my dreams was to bring Indak-Indak to a bigger venue for more Dabawenyos and visitors to see and appreciate the beauty of our festival. And now, it’s happening,” he said.
The relocation comes as Kadayawan Festival 2026 also raises the stakes with the biggest cash prizes in the history of the competition.
The Open Category grand champion will receive P1.5 million, while the School-Based Category champion will take home P1.2 million.
Winners in both categories will also receive plaques and medals, with cash prizes extending to the top five finishers and 10 consolation award recipients.
The festival also announced a record P1 million grand prize for the Pamulak sa Kadayawan champion, making this year’s Kadayawan one of the most rewarding editions yet for participating performers and contingents.
Tormis said the new venue, combined with the record-breaking incentives, is expected to attract bigger crowds, stronger competition, and an even grander celebration of Davao City’s culture, artistry, and unity during Kadayawan Festival 2026.
