TripZillaNothing encapsulates the Filipinos’ joyful exuberance — or their irrepressible love for music and dancing — than a local festival. Each festival in the Philippines involves colourful costumes, massive parades, upbeat live performances, non-stop partying, and overflowing food. In search of the country’s biggest and most vibrant festival? Well, look no further than the MassKara Festival in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental.
Image credit: Constantine Agustin
A combination of the English word mass (many people) and the Spanish word cara (face), MassKara Festival literally translates to the “festival of many faces.” And it’s easy to see why: Bright, smiling masks of all shapes, sizes, and colours take over Bacolod City as the festivities commence!
And did we mention that you’re invited? Filipinos and foreigners, locals and tourists — everyone is welcome to join the party in one of the country’s most colourful festivals.
Also read: Take Part in Asia’s Most Magical Lantern Festivals at These Iconic Destinations!
Where to stay in Bacolod
Image credit: Seda Capitol Central, Bacolod Official Facebook Page
First thing first: Make sure you’ve got a good place to stay in Bacolod. In between MassKara Festival events, rest and relax at Seda Capitol Central, winner of the 2023 Travel Excellence Awards by TripZilla – Business Star. Stylish, comfortable, and centrally located, this 154-room hotel is the perfect base for modern travellers, whether you’re on a business trip or visiting for MassKara Festival. The service is top-notch, too — although a warm and inviting atmosphere is probably expected in the City of Smiles.
Paired with highlights like the outdoor pool, gym, in-house restaurant, and spacious meeting facilities, we’re not surprised that this is the top pick of business and leisure travellers visiting Bacolod City. Plus, Seda Capitol Central is well-positioned for sightseeing! The hotel conveniently sits just a few minutes from the Port of Bacolod and less than 20 minutes from the Bacolod-Silay International Airport.
What is the MassKara Festival about?
Image credits: Jundy Tiu
Unlike other Philippine festivals, MassKara Festival doesn’t have religious roots. Instead of paying tribute to saints and various Roman Catholic figures, its official purpose is to celebrate the city’s charter day. Additionally, the festival aims to showcase the culture of the Negrenses (locals of Negros Province) while living up to Bacolod’s title as the City of Smiles.
The first MassKara Festival originally came about during a time of crisis. In 1980, the country found itself in famine and Negros Occidental struggled as the price of sugar plummeted to an all-time low. At the same time, a tragic ferry accident involving multiple Negrenses occurred. And so, a colourful festival was born, MassKara Festival. With this, the city put the smiles back on locals’ faces — and ended up putting these smiles front and centre!
Image credit: Bro. Jeffrey Pioquinto, SJ
The annual festival lights up Bacolod City every fourth weekend of October. Street parties, night parades, and the much-awaited dance competition are highlights of the festival. And of course, a sea of colourful, smiling masks!
Fly to Bacolod to experience the MassKara Festival for yourself and dance your way to the beat of the drums. You can get your masks in the city — just don’t forget to bring your camera. See you there?
