Bakood Festival
Introduction
Bakood Festival: Celebrating Faith, Culture, and Heritage in Bacoor City
The Bakood Festival is an annual celebration held in Bacoor City, Cavite, Philippines, every September. The festival is a vibrant showcase of the city’s rich history, culture, and religious traditions, culminating in a grand parade and a series of cultural events.
Origins and Significance
The Bakood Festival traces its roots to the city’s founding in 1578 when Spanish colonizers established a settlement named “San Juan de Bocboc.” The name “Bakood” is believed to have originated from the Tagalog word “bakod,” meaning “fence” or “enclosure,” alluding to the stockade that was built around the early settlement for protection.
Over the centuries, the Bakood Festival has evolved into a significant event in the city’s calendar, commemorating the city’s founding, honoring its patron saint, St. Michael the Archangel, and showcasing the unique cultural identity of Bacoor.
Festivities and Highlights
The Bakood Festival typically spans for a week, with various events and activities leading up to the grand finale on the last Sunday of September. Some of the highlights of the festival include:
Religious Ceremonies: Devout Catholics attend religious processions and masses in honor of St. Michael the Archangel, seeking his blessings and intercession.
Cultural Presentations: Traditional dances, music, and performances showcase the rich cultural heritage of Bacoor, with groups from different barangays (villages) showcasing their unique artistry.
Street Parades: Colorful and lively street parades fill the streets of Bacoor, featuring marching bands, elaborate floats, and costumed dancers, creating a festive atmosphere.
Bakood Festival Queen: A beauty pageant is held to select the Bakood Festival Queen, who serves as an ambassador of the city’s culture and beauty.
Culinary Delights: Local cuisine takes center stage, with food stalls offering a variety of Bacoor’s culinary specialties, from fresh seafood to traditional delicacies.
Grand Finale and Significance
The grand finale of the Bakood Festival typically takes place on the last Sunday of September, culminating in a spectacular parade that showcases the best of the festival’s events and performances. The parade features marching bands, elaborate floats, costumed dancers, and a vibrant display of colors and energy.
The Bakood Festival holds immense significance for the people of Bacoor City. It serves as a reminder of their shared history, strengthens their sense of community, and provides a platform for celebrating their unique cultural identity. The festival also promotes tourism and economic activity in the city, attracting visitors from neighboring regions and beyond.
Date, Days
The festival begins in the last week of September.
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 nearest airport to Bacoor City is Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL), which is located in Pasay City, Metro Manila. From the airport, you can take a taxi, Uber, or GrabCar to Bacoor City.
By Bus
There are several bus companies that offer regular bus services to Bacoor City from Manila, Cebu, Davao, and other major cities in the Philippines. The bus ride from Manila to Bacoor City will take approximately 2-3 hours and cost around ₱150-₱200 (US$3-US$4).
By Car
If you are renting a car or have a private car, you can drive to Bacoor City from Manila, Cebu, Davao, or other major cities in the Philippines. The drive from Manila to Bacoor City will take approximately 1-2 hours.
