Masskara Festival
Introduction
The MassKara Festival is a colorful and vibrant celebration held annually in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, Philippines. It is one of the Philippines’ most popular festivals, known for its lively street dances, colorful costumes, and infectious energy.
History of the MassKara Festival
The MassKara Festival originated in 1980 as a way for the people of Bacolod City to cope with a series of crises, including sugar mill closures, economic downturn, and a devastating fire. The festival’s name is a combination of the English word “mass” and the Spanish word “cara” meaning “face,” reflecting the festival’s emphasis on the joy and resilience of the Bacolodnon people.
Highlights of the MassKara Festival
The MassKara Festival is a month-long celebration, but the main festivities take place during the first two weeks of October. The festival highlights include:
Street Dancing: The highlight of the MassKara Festival is the street dancing competition, where groups of dancers from different barangays (villages) compete for the coveted title of champion. The dancers wear elaborate costumes and masks, showcasing their creativity and artistry as they perform energetic and synchronized routines to lively music.
Mask Parade: Another popular event is the Mask Parade, where participants showcase their unique and handcrafted masks. The masks are often made from a variety of materials, such as papier-mâché, beads, and feathers, and they reflect the creativity and resourcefulness of the Bacolodnon people.
Bacolod Queen MassKara: The Bacolod Queen MassKara pageant is a glamorous event that crowns the most beautiful and talented woman in Bacolod City. The queen serves as an ambassador of the festival and the city, promoting tourism and cultural exchange.
Other Events: The MassKara Festival also features a variety of other events, such as concerts, food festivals, and art exhibits. There is something for everyone to enjoy during this vibrant celebration.
Significance of the MassKara Festival
The MassKara Festival is more than just a celebration; it is a symbol of the Bacolodnon people’s resilience and spirit. Despite facing challenges, the people of Bacolod City have always found a way to come together and celebrate life. The festival is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always reason to smile and celebrate.
Date, Days
The festival begins on October 27th.
Please refer to the button below for the exact date.
(This is the starting date of the festival or the date on when the festival is being held.)
Location
How to get there
By Air
The fastest and most convenient way to get to Bacolod City is by plane. The city is served by Bacolod-Silay Airport (BCD), which is located about 15 kilometers from the city center.
By Ferry
If you are coming from Cebu or Iloilo, you can also take a ferry to Bacolod City. The ferry ride from Cebu takes about 8-10 hours, while the ferry ride from Iloilo takes about 2-3 hours.
By Bus
If you are on a budget, you can also take a bus to Bacolod City. There are several bus companies that operate between Bacolod City and other major cities in the Philippines.
