Cebu is a kaleidoscope of varying cultures and lifestyles, a meeting of east and west, a fusion of things traditional and modern.
This is influenced by the various phases of Cebu: being the spot where Philippine history began, becoming the cradle of Christianity, experiencing American and Japanese occupation, and later on transforming itself into a regional hub of everything--- from arts and craftsmanship, to business and information technology.
These, plus the convergence of various personalities and groups from varying backgrounds give the island a culture and lifestyle that is uniquely Cebu.
Traditions remain unchanged over the years, while every taste of things that are modern is embraced.
Forty-four towns and seven cities, various urban centers and countryside, islands and mountain ranges, age-old crafts and new technology. These diverse factors give the many faces of Cebu but still, all lead to one culture of excellence and piety, and a lifestyle of stylish fun all rolled into one.

Food
Rice is the main staple for Cebuanos. Being an island-province, fish (fresh or dried), crabs, seashells, shrimp and other seafood are a common sight in most tables, although pork, chicken and vegetables are equally accessible as well.
Barbeque and puso (hanging rice or boiled rice wrapped in woven coconut leaves) have become customary. Fast-food abound, although international restaurants--- whether European, Korean or something else, are everywhere.
But what is most interesting in Cebu are the various delicacies native to each towns and cities comprising the province. These local food products are showcased during exhibits and when the caravan of the Provincial Government-initiated Suroy-suroy Sugbo tourism program stops by in each place.

Traditions and Fiestas
Famous among a myriad of festivities in the province are the Siloy Festival of Alcoy, Mantawi Festival of Mandaue City, Kadaugan sa Mactan of Mactan Island, Palawod Festival of Bantayan Island, Haladaya Festival of Daanbantayan to name a few. Not to forget, the Sinulog Festival in honor of Señor Sto Niño de Cebu which is celebrated every third Sunday of January.

Siloy Festival, celebrated every last Saturday of August, pays tribute to Patron Saint Rose of Lima. This festival promotes the Mag-abo Forest which shelters the renowned but endangered black shama (siloy).

Mantawi of Mandaue City, meanwhile, illustrates the city’s heritage and identity as industrial center through floats, food festival and trade fairs. The Kadaugan sa Mactan commemorates the historic battle between the Spanish leader Ferdinand Magellan and Mactan Chieftain Lapu-lapu.
Of the many islets in Cebu, perhaps the most well-known is the Bantayan Island. During their Palawod Festival every last week of June, locals and guests alike participate in street dancing which captures the traditional fishing, a livelihood inherent in the island.
The more than 40 festivals in Cebu province are highlighted in one grand event, the Festival of Festivals organized by the Cebu Provincial Government during its annual founding anniversary celebration every August.

Recreation
Being part of a tropical country, Cebu is lined with pristine white sand beaches perfect for weekend and holiday getaways. Famous resorts include Alegre Beach Resort in the municipality of Sogod, renowned for its white powdery beach and efforts in marine wildlife preservation.
At the sunset coast of Cebu another prominent tourist destination is the Badian Island Resort and Spa. A first class resort, it boasts of crystal blue waters, fine white sand beaches and the splendor of nature in the little island basking at Badian Gulf.
Sanctuaries also abound in the province. One of these is the Olango Wildlife Sanctuary, six miles off the east coast of mainland Cebu. The island play host to a total of 77 species of migratory birds in the East Asian Flyway.
For nature and butterfly lovers, a must see is the Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary and Art Gallery. It houses about 53 butterfly species and different kinds of moths.
Down south, Moalboal has the biggest Orchid Display in South East Asia. Take in the majesty of vast orchid varieties from Asia, South America and Hawaii which are cultured in the Orchid farm.
Cebu province offers a wide range of recreational activities- from diving spots to golf courses, from heritage walks to eco-tourism adventures.
In the metropolitan, entertainments centers thrive with vibrant discotheques and bars, specialty shops, savory restaurants and dinning areas, internet cafes and distinct shopping malls.

Religion
The most celebrated patron saint in Cebu is the Señor Sto Niño de Cebu, the Holy Child Jesus. The original statue is housed in the Basilica Minore del Sto Niño, near the famous cross erected by the Spaniards.
Historical accounts say the image was given by the Portuguese Captain Ferdinand Magellan to the wife of Cebu Chieftain Raja Humabon for their pledge of allegiance to the King of Spain. This event is depicted in the Sinulog Festival.
Majority of the population in Cebu are Roman Catholics. Spanish-era churches are dotting the coasts of Cebu province. One of the oldest in Central Visayas is the one in Boljoon, Cebu, which is more than 400 years old and is currently undergoing renovation.