The festival is a celebration of life, a thanksgiving for the gifts of nature, the wealth of culture, the bounties of harvest and serenity of living.

[2] Previously,[3][better source needed] this festival was held in the third week of August every year which was highlighting the 11 tribes of Davao City.

[4][better source needed] One of the highlights of the Kadayawan Festival is the Indak-Indak sa Kadalanan, which translates to street dancing.

The festivities feature different communities in Mindanao dancing in vibrant costumes that highlight their indigenous heritage.

In 1986, the Davao City government focused on uniting the people in the turbulent times of martial law.