If there’s one scent that instantly says “You’re in Davao”, it’s the sweet, creamy, and slightly daring aroma of durian. This week, that unmistakable fragrance greeted me the moment I stepped into SM Lanang — because the Durian Festival is officially back for its 11th year!
I’ve been to past Durian Festivals before, but this one feels extra special. After all, it’s not just a mall event — it’s a full-blown celebration brought to life by a powerhouse partnership: the Department of Agriculture, Durian Industry Association of Davao City, Durian Exporters Association of the Philippines, Department of Tourism, and the City Government of Davao. When you have that many hands working together, you know it’s going to be something worth sinking your teeth into.
A Feast for the Senses
The moment I arrived, I was met with rows of durian stalls, each proudly displaying the king of fruits in all its spiky glory. The vendors weren’t just selling — they were sharing stories: where their durians came from, how this year’s harvest has been, and even tips on how to pick the perfect one.
And oh, the varieties! Puyat, Duyaya, Arancillo, Kob White, and more — each with its own personality. If you’ve only ever had one type of durian, this festival will make you realize just how diverse (and delicious) the fruit can be.
A Kadayawan Must-Experience
August in Davao is more than just another month — it’s Kadayawan Festival, a season of gratitude, celebration, and showcasing the bounty of the land. The Durian Festival is one of the sweetest ways to experience that spirit, quite literally.
While durian is undeniably the star of the show, the festival also offers plenty for those who aren’t into the King of Fruits. You can indulge in marang, rambutan, mangosteen, pomelo, avocado, banana, santol, lanzones, and more — each a proud product of Davao’s fertile soil and hardworking farmers.
You’ll also find durian candies and other fruity treats to enjoy. Plus, there are fruit and plant seeds for sale, along with refreshing fermented and herbal juices made from local plants and fruits.
It’s like a fruit basket come to life, with every stall telling a story of abundance.
More Than Just Eating
What I love about the Durian Festival is that it’s not just about indulging. It’s also about understanding the fruit’s journey from farm to fork — and the hardworking farmers, traders, and exporters who make it possible.
The Department of Agriculture plays a big role in supporting durian growers, ensuring quality standards and helping farmers maximize their yield.
The Durian Industry Association of Davao City and the Durian Exporters Association of the Philippines ensure that our beloved fruit doesn’t just stay local — it travels to markets abroad, carrying with it the pride of Davao.
The Department of Tourism adds that extra push to make durian not just a food, but an experience.
And of course, the City Government of Davao represented by the OIC, City Agriculturist ties it all together, making sure the festival remains a highlight in our cultural calendar.
Durian from Davao City is no longer just a local treasure — it has gone global. Through the combined efforts of farmers, industry associations, and government support, our prized fruit is now exported internationally, reaching markets in countries such as China, Japan, and Singapore.
This achievement is a source of pride for the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), which continues to strengthen trade partnerships and open new opportunities for Davao’s durian in the global market. Not only does this boost our local economy, but it also cements Davao’s reputation as the Durian Capital of the Philippines, making every bite a taste of homegrown excellence recognized around the world.
Why It Matters
Living in Davao, it’s easy to take durian for granted. But festivals like this remind me that our fruit is more than just a local delicacy — it’s an industry, a livelihood, and a cultural symbol. It’s something that brings farmers, exporters, chefs, tourists, and everyday residents together in one shared love (or at least shared curiosity) for this unique fruit.
And during this month, Kadayawan, it’s the perfect reminder that Davao’s bounty isn’t just delicious — it’s worth celebrating, sharing, and sustaining for generations to come. Visiting tourists, whether first-timers or returning guests, are always fond of coming back to join the festivities and take pride in celebrating with the Dabawenyos — just like our friends from the People’s Republic of China, who continue to visit Davao year after year.
Looking Ahead
The Durian Festival at SM Lanang isn’t just an event — it’s a reminder that Davao’s agricultural heritage is alive and thriving. It’s proof of what can happen when government agencies, industry associations, and private sectors work hand in hand.
As I left the festival, hands sticky from my last rambutan and lanzones (note to self: bring more wet wipes next time), I couldn’t help but feel proud. Proud to be from a city that celebrates its roots, its flavors, and its people. And if you plan to visit and indulge in the durian at the Durian Festival in SM Lanang, trust me—bring plenty of wet wipes! ðŸ¤ðŸ˜†
The festival runs from August 12 until September 14, 2025, giving locals and tourists plenty of time to savor Davao’s bounty. Whether you’re here for the King of Fruits or the many other homegrown harvests, it’s the perfect reason to join the Kadayawan celebration and take home a taste of Davao.
If you haven’t visited yet, do yourself a favor: drop by SM Lanang, grab a seat, explore the stalls, and taste the very essence of Kadayawan. Whether it’s durian or any of Davao’s other homegrown fruits, it’s a bite of tradition you won’t forget.
