The MassKara Festival is a lively annual celebration in Bacolod City held every October, known for its bright masks and energetic street dancing. It started in 1980 during a difficult time caused by a sugar crisis and a tragic ferry sinking, meant to lift the spirits of the people and show their strength. The festival features performers wearing colorful masks made from coconut husks and paper mâché, symbolizing happiness and resilience. Local artists, community leaders, and volunteers all play key roles in organizing and continuing the tradition. The event promotes unity, cultural pride, and tourism while also supporting the local economy. Despite challenges like environmental impact, safety concerns, and pandemic disruptions, efforts are made to preserve and improve the festival through education, documentation, and community involvement.
Domain:
Location/s:
Photo Credit/s:
Marc Leo Layson, (2024)
Mappers:
Cheryl Mae D. Garcia, Janica Mae M. Lopez, Francis Mae D. Lachica, Tiodel C. Masabio, Noreen T. Alvarez
Tags:
annual street dancing, Bacolod City festival, Bacolod cultural events, coconut husk masks, colorful masks festival, community festivals Philippines, cultural pride Bacolod, economic impact festivals, environmental concerns festivals, festival preservation efforts, Filipino festival traditions, Filipino festivals October, local artists MassKara, MassKara Festival, MassKara mask tradition, pandemic impact on festivals, paper mache masks, resilient community celebrations, safety in large events, sugar crisis history, tourism in Bacolod
Want to know more?
Inquire about this specific heritage by filling up the form below.
We will get back to you with an answer as soon as we can.
