CEBU, Philippines - As with any occasion or gathering, parade viewing has its own share of do’s and don’ts, simple acts which are rooted on good manners, courtesy, and respect for fellow parade viewers.
While spending the day viewing this Sunday’s Sinulog Grand Parade with family and friends, do well in remembering the parade viewing dos and don’ts jotted down here, in ensuring that your parade viewing experience of this year’s Sinulog will be memorable and fun.
Do – Take the time to learn more about the parade’s route, finding a good area where you, your friends and family members can gain a good view of the parade.
Remind your parents about the importance of being early, in ensuring that you and your party will be at your ideal viewing spot before the parade starts.
Don’t – Should you and your group arrive late, don’t expect to find your ideal viewing spot to be empty. Chances are, a large crowd will already be present if you arrive late, and in such a situation, don’t leave your group and force your way through other viewers.
Your folks are bound to have alternative viewing spots in mind, and it pays to listen to what they have to say.
Do – Always listen to what your mom or dad tells you.
For sure, your parents will allow you to be in front of them so you can get a good view of the parade, so don’t worry about being denied the chance to see anything.
Be patient and listen to what your folks tell you, and make sure that you are not separated from them.
Don’t – Should your current viewing spot prove to have viewing problems, don’t stray from your group in finding other viewing spots on your own.
Instead, inform your parents about other viewing spots you see, and move to that better viewing spot together as a group – not on your own.
Do – Be considerate and go to the bathroom before the parade starts. If you really have to go on a bathroom break while the parade has started, inform your parents about it as soon as possible to avoid problems.
Don’t – As much as snacks and drinks are great, don’t drink or eat too much while viewing the parade.
Drinking and/or eating too much could lead to more trips to the bathroom, which could mean that you’d end up spending more time in bathroom trips, rather than seeing the parade itself.
Do – There is a reason why parade floats are elevated, and you don’t really have to ask your dad if you can sit on his shoulders.
Instead, ask your dad to bring a sturdy portable stool or chair with him before going to the parade, one which you can stand or sit on comfortably.
Don’t – Though you’re bound to get a good view while sitting on your dad’s shoulders, this isn’t really a good idea since you would be blocking the view of other parade viewers.
Also, not only will you be in the way of other peoples’ view, but there’s also the chance that your dad might trip, which could result to injuries for you and him.
Do – Listen to parade officials and always be mindful of your surroundings.
As parade officials, their priority is your safety, and if they tell you to move back or to move aside, it is best that you do.
Don’t – Don’t listen to questionable orders issued by other viewers.
If a stranger tells you to come with him or her, it is best that you inform your parents about it. Never leave your parents’ side, and always make sure that you and your group will be together throughout the parade.