MassKara Festival Bacolod City Philippines

Image Source: Herbert Kikoy, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Are you ready to immerse yourself in a lively celebration filled with smiling masks, October fiesta, Bacolod chicken inasal, street parties, dance contests, and live music?

The MassKara Festival in Bacolod City, located in Negros Occidental, is a one-of-a-kind experience that showcases the rich culture and traditions of the Filipino people.

The festival is a vibrant showcase of colorful costumes, delicious local cuisine, and lively street parties that will leave you captivated by the exuberant energy of the celebrations.

Join in the fun and explore the lively spirit of Filipino celebrations during this iconic event, which has made Bacolod City a must-visit destination for tourists seeking an authentic cultural experience.

Key Takeaways:

• Smiling Masks: The MassKara Festival is known for its smiling masks, which are a symbol of the festival’s resilience and positivity in the face of challenges.
• October Fiesta: This lively festival takes place in October and is a major event in Bacolod City, Philippines, drawing in visitors from all over the world to join the celebrations.
• Street Parties and Dance Contests: The festival features vibrant street parties and energetic dance contests, showcasing the lively and dynamic culture of the Philippines.

Facts About MassKara Festival Philippines

Facts	Explanation
Festival Name:	MassKara Festival
Type of Festival:	Cultural Festival
Festival Etymology:	The term “MassKara” is derived from the English word “mass” meaning “many” or “a multitude of” and the Spanish word “cara” meaning “face”. The festival is known for its vibrant masks and smiling faces.
First Celebration Date:	October 19, 1980
Founder of the Festival:	Ely Santiago
Brief History of the Festival:	The MassKara Festival was created in response to the challenging times Bacolod City faced in the 1980s. It was a period of economic crisis and tragedy, with a sugarcane industry decline and a shipwreck tragedy. To uplift the spirits of the people, the festival was born as a way to showcase the resilience and optimism of the Bacolodnons. The festival’s highlight is the street dance competition where participants wear colorful masks and costumes while dancing to lively music, symbolizing joy and celebration amidst adversity. Today, the MassKara Festival has become one of the most popular festivals in the Philippines, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
Brief History of Bacolod City:	Bacolod City, known as the “City of Smiles,” is the capital of Negros Occidental province in the Philippines. It is a highly urbanized city with a rich history rooted in sugarcane farming and colonial influences. Bacolod developed into a major center for the sugar industry during the Spanish colonial period and later became known as the “Sugar Bowl of the Philippines.” Today, it is a bustling city known for its friendly and hospitable people, delicious cuisine, and vibrant festivals like the MassKara Festival.
Ethnic Information:	Bacolod City is home to various ethnic groups, including the Hiligaynon, Cebuano, Ilonggo, and Chinese communities.
Location in the Country:	Bacolod City is located in the western part of the island of Negros in the central Philippines.
How to Reach Bacolod City:	By air: Bacolod-Silay International Airport serves as the main gateway to Bacolod City, with flights from major cities in the Philippines. By sea: Bacolod City is accessible via sea transportation, with regular ferry services from Manila and other ports in the country.
Nearby Cities/Towns:	The term “MassKara” is derived from the English word “mass” meaning “many” or “a multitude of” and the Spanish word “Cara” meaning “face”. The festival is known for its vibrant masks and smiling faces.
Google Map Link:	Bacolod City Map
Festival Main Events and Activities:	– Street Dance Competition – Beauty Pageants – Food Festivals – Fireworks Display
Other Famous Tourist Attractions:	-The Ruins – A historical mansion known for its grand architecture and beautiful gardens. – Negros Museum – Showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Negros Occidental. – San Sebastian Cathedral – A stunning church with intricate designs. – Panaad Park and Stadium – A sprawling park and sports complex. – Mambukal Mountain Resort – Offering hot springs, waterfalls, and nature trails.
Famous Food Dishes:	– Chicken Inasal – Grilled chicken marinated in a blend of spices. – Cansi – A savory soup made with beef shanks and bone marrow. – Piaya – A sweet flatbread filled with muscovado sugar. – Napoleones – A layered pastry filled with custard cream. – Batchoy – A noodle soup with pork and innards.
Landmarks:	– Bacolod Public Plaza – A historic park at the heart of Bacolod City. – Capitol Park and Lagoon – A scenic park with a man-made lagoon. – Balay Negrense – A well-preserved ancestral house turned museum. – Pope John Paul II Tower – A towering structure offering panoramic views of Bacolod. – Campuestohan Highland Resort – A family-friendly resort with various attractions and activities.
Related Festivals in the Same Region:	– Panaad sa Negros Festival (Negros Occidental) – Sinulog Festival (Cebu City) – Ati-Atihan Festival (Kalibo, Aklan) – Dinagyang Festival (Iloilo City)

The History Of MassKara Festival Philippines

The MassKara Festival is a vibrant and colorful celebration that takes place in Bacolod City, Philippines, every October. The name “MassKara” is a portmanteau of the English word “mass” (meaning “many” or “a multitude of”) and the Spanish word “cara” (meaning “face”), which reflects the festival’s most iconic symbol: the smiling masks worn by participants.

This festival, which showcases street dances, colorful costumes, and elaborate masks, is one of the most popular and joyous festivals in the Philippines, attracting tourists from around the world.

Origins and History

The MassKara Festival was first conceived in 1980, during a period of crisis for the city of Bacolod. At that time, the region’s sugar industry, which was the primary source of income for many residents, was facing severe challenges due to a drop in sugar prices in the global market.

This economic downturn was compounded by a tragic maritime accident on April 22, 1980, when the inter-island ferry MV Don Juan collided with a tanker and sank, resulting in the loss of hundreds of lives, many of whom were from Bacolod and neighbouring areas.

In response to these challenges, local government and civic leaders decided to hold a festival to lift the spirits of the city’s residents. The idea was to create an event that would bring people together in a display of resilience, solidarity, and hope.

The use of smiling masks during the festival was a deliberate choice to symbolize the people’s determination to overcome their difficulties with a positive outlook.

Evolution of the Festival

Over the years, the MassKara Festival has grown in scale and popularity, evolving into a major cultural event that showcases the artistry, creativity, and festive spirit of the Filipino people.

The festival typically lasts for several weeks, culminating in the main street dance competition where groups of dancers wearing elaborate, colorful costumes and smiling masks perform to the rhythm of Latin-inspired music.

Aside from the street dances, the festival also features beauty pageants, sports competitions, agricultural shows, and other cultural and entertainment events. One of the highlights is the Electric MassKara, a nighttime parade featuring floats and dancers adorned with lights, adding a modern twist to the traditional celebration.

Cultural Significance

The MassKara Festival has become a symbol of the resilience and indomitable spirit of the people of Bacolod and the Philippines as a whole. It represents the ability of Filipinos to smile and find joy in the face of adversity.

Cultural Highlights of Bacolod

The MassKara Festival is a vibrant and lively celebration that showcases the rich culture and traditions of Bacolod City and the entire Negros Occidental.

The festival is known for its iconic smiling masks, lively street parties, and dance contests that captivate locals and tourists alike.

Savoring Bacolod Chicken Inasal

When you visit Bacolod during the MassKara Festival, you cannot miss out on the opportunity to savor the famous Bacolod Chicken Inasal.

This Filipino dish is marinated in a mixture of calamansi, soy sauce, and various spices before being grilled to perfection. The result is tender, juicy, and flavorful chicken that will surely tantalize your taste buds.

You can find this mouthwatering dish at local eateries, food stalls, and restaurants throughout the city.

MassKara Festival Schedule of Activities

The MassKara Festival offers a plethora of activities throughout its celebration period, especially during October. Here is a summary of the key highlights and events that make up the MassKara Festival schedule of activities:

1. Novenario Masses: These are held at the San Sebastian Cathedral and consist of nine consecutive days of novena prayers and liturgical celebrations, culminating in the feast of the Holy Rosary in mid-October.
2. MassKara Festival Queen: An annual beauty pageant established in 1981, it selects a candidate who best embodies the spirit of the festival. Contestants are judged on various criteria to determine the best representative for that year.
3. Electric MassKara: A highlight of the festival, this event features a parade of lighted floats and street dancers wearing costumes illuminated with neon and LED lights. It creates a visually stunning, electrifying cityscape along Lacson Street in the evening.
4. Street Dance and Arena Competitions: The pinnacle of the festival, these dance contests showcase the best contingents in two categories: schools and barangays (neighbourhoods) of Bacolod. Participants wear colorful costumes and dance to the rhythm of drums.
5. Nights of Mardi Gras: This event involves two elimination rounds and a finals night, focusing on a competitive search for the best fantasy-inspired costume. The activity concludes with a vibrant street parade.

Additionally, the festival features various other events such as fashion shows, cultural and variety shows, exhibits, fireworks displays, contests in sports, singing, drum-beating, children’s parties, pet shows, job fairs, travel bazaars, and concerts.

These events take place in several locations throughout Bacolod City, including the Bacolod Public Plaza, the Lacson Tourism Strip, the Bacolod Government Center, SMX Convention Center, and other major roadways and indoor arenas, with religious events primarily held in the San Sebastian Cathedral.

The Broader Impact on Bacolod City

Despite being a relatively small city in the Philippines, Bacolod City has made a name for itself on the global stage with the annual MassKara Festival.

The festival has significantly impacted the city, bringing in tourists from all over the world and boosting the local economy.

The vibrant costumes, energetic street parties, and lively dance contests have put Bacolod City on the map as a must-visit destination during October.

Boosting Bacolod Tourism

The MassKara Festival has played a crucial role in boosting tourism in Bacolod City. The influx of visitors during the festival has led to increased revenue for local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops.

The festival has also created employment opportunities for the locals, as the demand for tour guides, drivers, and hospitality staff surges during the event.

Beyond the festival month, the positive reputation created by the MassKara Festival continues to attract tourists throughout the year, sustaining the city’s tourism industry.

MassKara Festival’s Role in Filipino Celebrations

The MassKara Festival has become an integral part of Filipino celebrations, showcasing the country’s love for music, dance, and vibrant costumes.

The festival’s lively atmosphere and the spirit of unity it fosters have made it a symbol of Filipino culture and community. The festival has also helped in preserving the local traditions and heritage of Bacolod City, reinforcing the importance of cultural identity and pride.

Moreover, it has brought the community together, fostering a sense of belonging and solidarity among the residents.

Interesting Facts About MassKara Festival Bacolod City Philippines

• 🎭 The MassKara Festival was born out of adversity in 1980, during a time of crisis due to the collapse of the sugar industry and a tragic maritime accident, as a means to uplift the spirits of the Bacolodnons.
• 🤖 In recent years, the Electric MassKara, featuring illuminated floats and dancers with LED lights, has added a modern twist to the traditional festival, merging technology with culture.
• 🎨 Local artists handcraft the elaborate masks worn during the festival, often starting months in advance, making each mask a unique piece of art symbolizing happiness and resilience.
• 🎶 Unlike other Philippine festivals that are usually held in honor of a patron saint, MassKara is a secular festival that celebrates the spirit, identity, and arts of the Bacolod community.
• 🍴 Street food becomes a highlight during the festival, with “Chicken Inasal” alley becoming a hotspot for tasting Bacolod’s signature grilled chicken dish, showcasing the city’s culinary heritage.
• 💃 The festival includes a unique competition where dancers wear roller skates, combining traditional dance moves with roller skating, showcasing the innovation and creativity of Bacolodnons.
• 🌍 MassKara is one of the few festivals in the Philippines that has gained international recognition, with Bacolod City establishing sister-city relationships with other cities worldwide as a result.
• 🏆 The MassKara Festival has a unique event called the “MassKara Queen” beauty pageant, which focuses not only on beauty but also on cultural awareness, intelligence, and social involvement.
• 🌳 Despite its urban setting, the festival also highlights Bacolod’s agricultural achievements, with events dedicated to showcasing local produce and livestock, connecting the city’s urban and rural communities.
• 📈 The MassKara Festival has significantly contributed to Bacolod City’s economy, boosting tourism, hospitality, and local businesses, and has become a model for community resilience and happiness.

How To Reach Bacolod City

Reaching Bacolod City, located in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines, is straightforward whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally. Here’s how you can get to Bacolod City:

By Air

• Domestic Flights: Bacolod is served by the Bacolod-Silay Airport (BCD), which is located in the neighbouring city of Silay, about 15 kilometres northeast of Bacolod City. There are direct flights from Manila, Cebu, and other major cities in the Philippines to Bacolod. Airlines such as Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia offer regular flights to Bacolod.
• International Travelers: International travellers usually fly into the Philippines through major gateways like Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila, Mactan-Cebu International Airport in Cebu, or Clark International Airport in Pampanga. From these airports, you can take a connecting domestic flight to Bacolod.

By Sea

• Ferries and RoRo Services: Bacolod City has a port that accommodates passenger ferries and Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) ships. There are regular ferry services from Manila and from Iloilo City to Bacolod. Companies like 2Go Travel operate ferries to Bacolod, which can be an option if you’re looking for a more scenic route or travelling with a vehicle.

By Land

• From Iloilo City: If you’re coming from Iloilo City, you can take a fast craft to Bacolod. The journey across the Guimaras Strait takes about an hour. Upon arrival in Bacolod, there are jeepneys, taxis, and tricycles available for local transportation.
• Bus Services: For those on nearby islands like Panay or in places like Cebu, there are also bus services that use RoRo ships to cross the water. For example, you can take a bus from Cebu to Bacolod with a ferry component in between. This option is convenient for those who prefer not to fly or are travelling on a budget.

Transportation within Bacolod

Once in Bacolod, there are various modes of local transportation available, including jeepneys, taxis, and tricycles, making it easy to get around the city and visit tourist spots.

Travel Tips

• Book in Advance: For flights and ferries, especially during the MassKara Festival season in October, it’s wise to book tickets in advance as the demand is high.
• Check Weather and Travel Advisories: Weather in the Philippines can affect travel plans, especially during the rainy season (June to November). Always check weather updates and travel advisories before your trip.
• Local Transportation: Explore local transportation options like jeepneys for an authentic Filipino experience, but for convenience and safety, taxis or ride-hailing apps are recommended, especially at night or when travelling with luggage.

By planning and considering these travel options, you can have a smooth and enjoyable trip to Bacolod City.

Famous Food Dishes of Bacolod Philippines

Bacolod City is not only famous for its MassKara Festival but also for its rich culinary heritage. Known for its delicious local dishes, Bacolod offers a gastronomic experience that reflects the city’s history, culture, and the warmth of its people.

Here are some of the most famous food dishes and culinary delights you should try when visiting Bacolod:

1. Chicken Inasal

Arguably the most iconic dish of Bacolod, Chicken Inasal is a marinated and grilled chicken dish that is uniquely Filipino. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of calamansi (Philippine lime), pepper, coconut vinegar, and annatto, giving it a distinctive taste and color. It’s usually served with rice, soy sauce, vinegar, or a special sauce made from chicken oil.

2. Batchoy

Although originally from the neighboring city of Iloilo, Batchoy is a popular noodle soup in Bacolod that has gained widespread popularity. It’s made with a hearty broth, noodles, pork organs, crushed pork cracklings, chicken stock, beef loin, and round noodles. It’s a must-try for soup lovers looking for a comforting bowl.

3. Kansi

Kansi is the Ilonggo version of the Filipino “sinigang” and “bulalo.” It’s a sour soup made with beef shank and bone marrow but distinguished by the use of batwan (a local fruit used as a souring agent) and lemongrass, giving it a unique flavor that’s both tangy and refreshing.

4. Piaya

Piaya is a sweet, flat unleavened bread filled with muscovado sugar. It’s a popular delicacy and pasalubong (homecoming gift) from Bacolod. The filling becomes syrupy when cooked, and the bread is slightly crispy on the outside, making it a delightful snack.

5. Napoleones

Napoleones is a layered pastry that resembles a mille-feuille. It’s made with layers of puff pastry filled with a sweet custard cream and topped with a white sugar glaze. This dessert is another popular treat from Bacolod that satisfies anyone with a sweet tooth.

6. Seafood

Given its location in the Visayas, Bacolod offers an abundance of fresh seafood dishes, from grilled fish to seafood stews. Fresh oysters, squid, and a variety of fish are commonly enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

7. La Paz Batchoy

Though originally from Iloilo, La Paz Batchoy has become a beloved dish in Bacolod as well. This noodle soup is known for its rich, savory broth made from pork offal, crushed pork cracklings, chicken stock, and beef loin.

8. Cansi/Kansi

Kansi is Bacolod’s answer to sinigang and bulalo. It’s a sour soup made with beef shank and bone marrow, flavored with jackfruit and lemongrass, offering a unique combination of sour and savory tastes.

9. Guapple Pie

A unique take on the traditional apple pie, Guapple Pie is made with guava and resembles an oversized apple pie. The guavas used are particularly large, hence the name, and provide a sweet, tangy flavor that’s quite different from its apple counterpart.

Famous Landmarks In Bacolod City Philippines

Here are some of the most famous landmarks and attractions that visitors should not miss when in Bacolod:

1. The Ruins

Often referred to as the “Taj Mahal of Negros,” The Ruins is the skeletal remains of a mansion built in the early 1900s. It was owned by Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson, a sugar baron, and was burned down during World War II to prevent Japanese forces from using it. Today, The Ruins stand as a stunning reminder of the past, set amidst lush gardens, and is a popular destination for tourists and photographers.

2. San Sebastian Cathedral

This historical church, built in 1876, is a significant religious and cultural landmark in Bacolod. The San Sebastian Cathedral, made from coral stones, has stoodthe test of time and serves as a spiritual center for the Catholic community in the city. Its architecture and the peace it offers make it a must-visit.

3. Capitol Park and Lagoon

Located in the heart of the city, the Capitol Park and Lagoon is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. The park features a picturesque lagoon, a majestic statue of a woman standing alongside a water buffalo, and a matching statue of a man on the opposite end, symbolizing the hardworking people of Negros. It’s a great place for leisurely walks, picnics, and enjoying the outdoors.

4. Negros Museum

The Negros Museum is a non-profit institution dedicated to preserving the history, culture, and heritage of Negros Occidental. It houses a variety of exhibits that showcase the province’s history, including its rich sugar industry, traditional arts and crafts, and the lifestyle of its people through the ages.

5. Bacolod Public Plaza

This historical plaza serves as a central point for public gatherings, cultural shows, and events, especially during the MassKara Festival. Surrounded by old trees and featuring a gazebo at its center, the Bacolod Public Plaza is a reminder of the city’s Spanish colonial past and a vibrant community space.

6. Pope John Paul II Tower

Dedicated to the late Pope John Paul II to commemorate his visit to Bacolod in 1981, this seven-story tower offers panoramic views of the city and the Guimaras Strait. The tower also features memorabilia and photos of the Pope’s visit, making it a site of religious and historical significance.

7. Panaad Park and Stadium

This complex is known for hosting the Panaad sa Negros Festival, an annual event that showcases the culture and products of the 13 cities and 19 municipalities of Negros Occidental. The park also includes a sports stadium, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, and other facilities for various activities.

8. Lakawon Island

Although not directly in Bacolod but within easy reach, Lakawon Island is a must-visit for beach lovers. This small island resort off the coast of Cadiz City features white sandy beaches, clear waters, and the famous TawHai Floating Bar, the largest floating bar in Asia.

9. Campuestohan Highland Resort

Located on the boundaries of Bacolod and Talisay, this mountain resort offers a cool climate, fun attractions like zip lines, rope courses, and themed accommodations, making it a popular destination for families and adventure seekers.

These landmarks reflect the diverse cultural, historical, and natural attractions that Bacolod City offers, making it a fascinating destination for travelers seeking a rich cultural experience in the Philippines.

Summary Of MassKara Festival Philippines

Fact	Description
Name	MassKara Festival
Observed by	Bacolod, Philippines
Type	Cultural
Date	Fourth Sunday in October
2022 Date	October 23
2023 Date	October 22
2024 Date	October 27
2025 Date	October 26
First Time	October 19, 1980
Etymology	The word “Masskara” is a portmanteau coined by the late artist Ely Santiago from “mass” (a multitude of people) and the Spanish word “cara” (face), forming “MassKara” (a multitude of faces). It is also a pun on “maskara,” Filipino for “mask,” since masks are a prominent feature of the festival. The festival is known as the “City of Smiles” because the masks worn by participants always have smiling faces. Bacolod City is often referred to as the “City of Smiles.”
History	The MassKara Festival began in 1980 as a response to tough times faced by Bacolod City, which relied heavily on sugar cane as its primary agricultural crop. The festival was initiated to uplift the spirits of the residents after a tragic maritime accident and low sugar prices. Over the years, it has become a major annual tourism attraction in the Philippines, contributing to the growth and development of various sectors in Bacolod City.
Events	The festival features various activities such as a street dance competition, MassKara Queen beauty pageant, carnivals, drum and bugle corps competitions, food festivals, sports events, musical concerts, agriculture-trade fairs, garden shows, and other special events organized annually.
Electric MassKara	Electric MassKara is a parade with music, lights, and floats.
Street Dancing	The street dance competition is divided into two categories: school division and barangay division. The barangay division is considered the highlight of the street dancing competition.
Grand Champions	The festival has crowned various grand champions in the Barangay Category over the years. Notable winners include Pahanocoy, Villamonte, Alijis, Mandalagan, Banago, and Granada among others.
Related	– Bacolod City – Negros Occidental – Panaad sa Negros Festival – Mardi Gras
Related	– MassKara Festival – Bacolod Public Plaza – Lacson Tourism Strip – Bacolod City Government Center – Ely Santiago – Don Juan Tragedy – Jose “Digoy” Montalvo – Romeo Geocadin – Evelio Leonardia – Electric MassKara – Latin musical beats – MassKara Queen – drum and bugle corps competitions – agriculture-trade fairs – garden shows – Bacolod brewery – San Miguel Corporation – Ruby Masskara- Bacolod – Philippines – Spanish – City of Smiles – sugar cane – sugar substitutes – high fructose corn syrup – United States – MV Don Juan – Tacloban City – Tablas Strait – Mindoro – Manila – Jose “Digoy” Montalvo – City Hall – Romeo Geocadin – Evelio Leonardia – Electric Masskara – Lacson Strip – San Miguel Corporation – Cebu island – 2019 – Covid
Important Links	MassKara Festival Bacolod Negros Occidental List of Philippine-related topics MassKara Festival Queen Panaad sa Negros Festival Mardi Gras

Related References Of MassKara Festival Philippines

Reference	Link
Masskara Festival Schedule of Activities	Link
Masskara Festival Schedule Officially Set	Link
The history behind Bacolod’s ‘smile’	Link
Don Juan Tragedy: Decades Passed and Negrenses Still Mourn	Link
Bacolod Masskara Festival Schedule of Events	Link

Conclusion

From above, you can see that the MassKara Festival in Bacolod City, Philippines is a vibrant and exciting celebration that showcases the city’s rich culture, delicious food, and lively music and dance traditions.

With its smiling masks, October fiesta, and street parties, the festival brings people together in a joyous celebration of Filipino heritage. Whether you are drawn to the energetic dance contests, the mouthwatering Bacolod Chicken Inasal, or the opportunity to experience the colorful costumes and live music, the MassKara Festival offers something for everyone.

Your visit to Bacolod City during this festival will surely be a memorable and immersive cultural experience, leaving you with lasting memories of the warmth and hospitality of the Filipino people and the beauty of Negros Occidental.

Be sure to add this remarkable event to your travel bucket list and bask in the joyous celebration of the MassKara Festival.

MassKara Festival Bacolod City Philippines FAQ