What You Should Know About Masskara Festival
BACOLOD MASSKARA FESTIVAL – Here’s what you should know about Bacolod City’s Masskara Festival.
The festival started in 1980 during the rule of the late President Ferdinand Marcos, a period marked by the sugar industry’s price crisis, which was the primary livelihood source in the province of Bacolod. The crisis was a result of the introduction of sugar alternatives into the market, causing economic turmoil in Bacolod City, which heavily relied on sugar production.
In response to this crisis, the city government orchestrated the inaugural Masskara Festival with the aim of uplifting the people’s spirits and boosting tourism. The festival immediately garnered success, bringing locals and visitors together for celebrations featuring music, dance, and street parties.
The festival’s name is a fusion of two words: “mass” (indicating a multitude) and “kara” (meaning faces). The iconic masks and costumes of the festival symbolize the resilience of the people and their ability to smile in the face of adversity.
Over time, the festival has gained immense popularity, establishing itself as one of the Philippines’ largest festivals. It has also become a platform for local artists to display their talents and promote the city’s culture and heritage.
Today, the Masskara Festival is more than just a celebration of Bacolod City’s sugar industry; it is a tribute to the city’s inhabitants, their creativity, and their unyielding spirit of togetherness and resilience.
Significance of the Masskara Festival
The Masskara Festival holds great significance for Bacolod as it showcases the city’s resilience, creativity, and unwavering spirit. Originating in 1980 during a period of multiple challenges, including an economic downturn in the sugar industry, which was the region’s economic backbone, the festival served as a way for the people of Bacolod to unite and celebrate their resilience in the face of adversity.
A prominent feature of the Masskara Festival is the vibrant masks worn by participants. These masks are intricately designed and symbolize the city’s lively culture. They also epitomize the festival’s central theme, which revolves around “smiles.” The festival aims to foster happiness, positivity, and a sense of camaraderie among Bacolod’s people.
The Masskara Festival is also of national significance for the Philippines, drawing thousands of tourists from around the world. It provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the country’s rich culture and traditions. It offers a chance to witness the lively street parades, savor the delectable local cuisine, and fully immerse oneself in the festive ambiance.
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