SPECIAL celebrations in the Philippines wouldn’t be complete without the famous lechon. And the best lechon is undeniably found in the “Queen City of the South.” In celebrating Cebu’s culinary pride, The Mactan Newtown, in partnership with the Lapu-Lapu City government, sets the popular lechon in the limelight with its very own “Lechon Festival.”

The celebration started with a grand lechon parade that kicked off in the vicinity of The Mactan Newtown. Foodies congregated to witness the parade as various lechon-themed floats were showcased by the best lechon-makers in Cebu.

All eyes were on the enormous lechon dummy on the top of a jeepney followed by lively street dancers syncing to the beat of the drums. The aroma coming from the live roasting of lechon nearby allured audiences as well.

After the parade, festival goers went to Mactan Alfresco’s very own Lechon Pit to witness the lechons’ preparation process. Aside from delicious arrays of lechon-themed dishes and lechon pairings, a cultural performance delighted the crowd reminiscing the province’s momentous history. Pinoy games such as “Habulang Biik” were enjoyed by not just locals but foreign guests as well. With its last day tomorrow, guests can enjoy the special price of lechon at P400 per kilo from all participating lechon sellers.

This cultural celebration aims to bring awareness to small-scale and less commercialized lechon businesses. It is also to praise lechon as a main pillar of food tourism in Cebu.