Facts About MassKara Festival
The MassKara Festival is a vibrant annual event held in Bacolod, Philippines, typically celebrated on the fourth Sunday of October. The festival originated in 1980 during a difficult period for the region's sugar industry. It was introduced to uplift the community's spirits amidst economic hardships and the aftermath of a tragic maritime accident. The name "MassKara" combines "mass" and "cara" meaning a multitude of faces, perfectly capturing the festival’s essence of showcasing smiling faces and colorful masks. This is why Bacolod is often referred to as the "City of Smiles."
Over the years, the MassKara Festival has blossomed into a major tourist attraction. It features an array of events, including street dance competitions, beauty pageants, carnivals, musical concerts, and more. The festival has significantly boosted the city's tourism and hospitality industries. One of the standout events is the Electric MassKara, a dazzling parade with illuminated floats and dancers that light up the night.
The festival's masks have evolved over time. What started as traditional hand-painted masks now includes contemporary designs inspired by international carnivals. The MassKara Festival has become a symbol of resilience and community spirit for Bacolod City, showcasing its capacity to overcome challenges and celebrate life with joy. In 2019, the festival celebrated its 40th anniversary, known as the Ruby MassKara celebration.