Tuna Festival is held every year in September in General Santos a thanksgiving and celebration of GenSan being the Tuna Capital of the Philippines, it also happens to coincide with the city’s charter anniversary .

This year marks the 16th year of the festival, that will officially open on the 5th of September. With a flag raising ceremony at the City Hall at 8:00 AM City followed by a Tuna Float Parade around 2:00 PM at SM-Plaza, and the grand opening on 6:00 PM at the Oval Grandstand

Here are some of the events to look forward to, along with a few places that you have to visit when you’re in Gensan this September.

First, visit the Carnival, located at the Oval Plaza, after you’ve enjoyed the gut dropping rides, drop by Beestop, located just a few steps away from the plaza, to have the best chicken in town. If the night is still young and you fancy a few cold beers, chill out at Valley High, just along the National Highway, you could enjoy a sub zero chilled beer with a side of fresh seafood from Red Trellis for that Tuna fest feel. Or with a plate of Spaghetti di Avola from Only Goodfellas Resto, a marriage between a pizza and pasta on a plat, definitely a must try.

If beers and rides aren’t your thing, and more of an artist than a foodie, drop by KCC mall on Sept. 14-21 and marvel at the Tuna Fest Photo Exhibit, where the rich fishing industry in Gensan would be reflected on photos.

For the fitness and sports buffs on Aug.30, 2014 the 2nd Mayor Ronnel C. Rivera Cup 7AM at the Ngilay Shooting Range, Aug. 31 the 13th Yellowfin Bike Challenge 6AM at the Oval Grandstand., Sept. 7 there’s the Tuna Fest Run 2014 3:30 AM Oval Plaza, on Sept. 9-11 a Beach Volleyball event at the Queen Tuna Park, a Boxing Tournament (Friendship Game) on Sept. 6-7 at the Oval Covered Court, MIO Motor Race Sept. 6-7 at Mabuhay Road, Beach Volleyball Sept. 9-11 at Queen Tuna Park.