VIGAN CITY – All is set for this year’s celebration of the Viva Vigan “Binatbatan” Festival of the Arts in this world’s heritage city from April 30 to May 5.

Vigan City Mayor Eva Marie Singson-Medina said she promises the 2010 Viva Vigan “Binatbatan” Festival to feature the grandest cultural activities in the country in years as the city expects domestic and foreign visitors.

The festival began in 1993 in an effort to nurture the pride of Bigueños by showcasing their identity and unique and antique appeal.

Among the significant highlights of this year’s Viva Vigan Binatbatan Festival of the Arts are as follows: the Zarzuela at Plaza Burgos titled “Walang Sugat.”slated Friday; Labor Day celebration at Don Isabelo delos Reyes Marker at Crisologo Street, opening of exhibits, Carabao Painting and Boklan Art’s Contests, and Free Dog anti- Rabies Vaccination and Heritage Singing Idol on May 1;

The Tarayem Fun Run, Beach Volleyball, Bankathon, Binatbatan Street Dancing Contest and Showdown on May 2; the Holy Mass of Apo Lakay; Kalesa Parade and Contest; Santacruzan and Disco sa Kalye on May 3;

The Traditional Games, Gay Parade and Cultural Show; May 5 – Abel – house décor contest, basketball exhibition of Gays and Abel Fashion Show on May 4.

One new attraction is the Vigan River Cruise along the historic Mestizo River. Motorboats, each accommodating 15 passengers, are available for a fare of P100 for adults; P70.00 for senior citizens; and P50.00 for children.

Five tableaus were installed in strategic places on the river banks of both sides of the river, depicting the arrival of Captain Juan De Salcedo – the founder of Vigan City; the transfer of city diocese of Nueva Segovia from Lal-lo, Cagayan to Vigan; the traditional city’s industries like blacksmith, abel-weaving, jar-making and others; the native food delicacies like longganiza, empanada, "bagnet", "kakanin" and others; and the barter trade during the pre- colonial period.

“With the collaboration of the local government units (LGUs) and the private sector, it metamorphosed into one of the biggest and most colorful attractions in the North, drawing crowds from all over the Philippines and abroad, who come to celebrate a festival in a setting replete with history, heritage, cultural treasures and reminiscences,” Medina said.