Sinulog Events for today, January 9

CEBU, Philippines – The cool winds may have had kept many inside the home during the yuletide season. But now, as the holidays continue in Cebu, there's compelling reason to go out and have fun as parties, concerts and other fun activities are everywhere. It's Sinulog time in the city.

The Sinulog festival has various activities for the whole family to go out to. Most of these activities start in the late afternoon. Which is good for families with little kids to tug along, as there is time for the little ones to take a sound nap beforehand.

Many activities take place almost simultaneously in separate venues, so parents need to decide which particular events are good to take the kids to. Just a little research will reveal a good number of these events. The following are just some.

At 6 p.m. today, the Sinulog Choral Competition Grand Finals takes place at the Robinsons Galleria. It's the grand finals already, so the performance caliber is not likely to be at the basic level anymore. The comfortable indoor venue is sure to add up to the beauty of the musical experience.

At the open Fuente Osmeña rotunda, several activities unfold from 6:30 p.m. onwards. One is the cultural show organized by the Department of Education-Cebu Province, highlighting the rich folk culture through performances by members of the academe. It is followed by a showcase of the Cebuano singing talent - "Sinulog Idol" - at 8 p.m., and then a concert and open-air party at 9 p.m.

Over at Ayala Center Cebu the Miss Cebu 2016 pre-pageant is scheduled at 7 p.m. This is big deal to teenagers, who may have a friend or schoolmate among the candidates. It takes place at the mall's Activity Center. Mom and dad need to figure it out, whether to let the older kids go on their own or to cut short their attendance in prior events and head over to the next one together.

The mentioned activities are open to the public - for free. As with any public event that attracts a big crowd, security and safety may be an issue. Indoor venues may offer more protection, but open spaces are also more refreshing. Family members have to make their choices together.

The mall looks apparently more secure and comfortable because of its enclosed environment. But there are also a lot of "temptations" there to lure the kids' attention, especially in the department store and the toy shops. Thus, it may be better for parents to bring extra money.

In going to an open-air venue, like Fuente Osmeña, it is good to bring provisions from home, particularly snacks and drinks. Sandwiches and juices - even drinking water - prepared at home is definitely safer for the family. Likewise, family members need to be watchful of the people in their surroundings, as strangers can be such a bunch of surprises. 

Whether indoor or outdoor, safety is always an issue in a public venue. Family members going out to a Sinulog event shall fill themselves not only with excitement - but with caution too.