CEBU, Philippines — The two major events of the Fiesta Senor celebration are the religious procession this afternoon and the Sinulog grand parade tomorrow. Both events draw a huge crowd, which could be a concern for parents attending either one, or both, with kids in tow. But even grownups without kids need to do proper planning before going out to join the ruckus.
Yes, any event that draws a large number of people is usually chaotic. Especially outdoor events, which both the Santo Nino procession and the Sinulog grand parade are. The religious procession can be a little less disorderly, owing to its very nature. Just the same, certain inconveniences and discomforts are to be expected.
Overall, one shall be totally alert when out there. A sea of people can be very volatile. Emergencies can occur at the slightest needling. Even if everything generally goes well, there are situations where one unintentionally causes inconvenience to another, or vice versa. When that happens, things can begin to go unpleasant.
That aside, some kind of preparation will help.
Plan ahead. Think, for example, what you want to do before, during, and after the event. Have an alternate plan too, in case the turn of events at the last minute warrants that you forgo with the original plan. Think also of what you need to bring along.
Know your route. Your festival plan shall necessarily include a route plan. Figure out in advance how you are going to get to where you want to go as well as how to get out of there afterwards. Remember that vehicles are not allowed on the main festival streets, which are sure to be teeming with people.
Sleep well the night before. Go to bed early the night before. Charge yourself up with energy that you will need the following day. Insufficient sleep can make you irritable and get tired easily, which can also affect your alertness and your ability to enjoy the things you were excited about.
Slip essentials into a handy bag. You have to be ready with a bag where to put a sandwich or biscuit, your smartphone (for communication and picture-taking), face towel or tissue paper, a hand fan, an extra shirt and an umbrella (very useful protection from the sun or rain). Yes, you can put your water bottle there too. Make sure that the bag is not bulky and is instead very easy to carry around.
Have a good meal before heading out. Be sure to have a good, nutritious meal that can sustain you in walking long distances and dealing with various stresses along the way. The crowd will be dense, for sure, and it may not be easy to get to a food stall when your tummy begins to signal, “Feed me.”
Wear comfortable clothes and footwear. Again, you are most probably going to walk long distances – in rain or shine. Try to avoid sweating profusely or dripping drenched in your outfit. Think rubber shoes for footwear. Look up to see what the weather is going to be like, and dress up accordingly. Hey, comfortable doesn’t mean absence of style!
Wear a hat. In case you won’t really need an umbrella to shield you from the sunlight, a hat is handier alternative. Besides, a hat can be decorated to be a festival piece to go with a festival t-shirt.
Be sure to bring drinking water. Even if ambulant water vendors abound, it may not be easy to get to them amid the dense crowd. With a water bottle on hand, you won’t have to worry getting thirsty. And you are sure of the quality of the water if it’s from home.
Put your sunglasses on. A pair of shades can be both good eye protection from the sun and a cool fashion accessory.
Have ready cash. Even if you think there’s nothing out there to spend for, bring some cash – just small bills and coins. It makes you feel confident knowing that you have money, just in case.
Leave your valuables at home. Things like expensive jewelry, pricey gadgets etc. are better left at home. These only attract the attention of snatchers.
Bring identification. Having an ID with you – especially one listing a contact person – is very helpful in times of emergency.
If it’s the whole family going out to celebrate, the preparation may be accordingly divided. Particular items may be assigned for individual family members to take care of. And on the day itself, there are more hands to carry whatever is necessary.