The Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) grounds are ready for the opening of the 21st Bacolaodiat Festival, which kicks off today, Feb. 20, and runs until Sunday, Feb. 22.
The annual festivities celebrate the Lunar New Year, ushering in the Year of the Fire Horse.
Day 1 begins with an opening ceremony at 4 p.m.
Organizers and city officials will then lead the opening of the Imperial Village, where festival-goers can explore traditional Chinese arts and crafts; the Emperor’s Market, offering a diverse selection of food; and the “Walls of Fortune” Mural-Painting Contest and Exhibit.
These activities will be followed by the Ceremonial Lights On at 6 p.m.
The three-day celebration at the BCGC grounds will also feature nightly entertainment, as well as a Lantern Dance Competition on Saturday, Chinese Cosplay Invasion to be followed by Bacolaodiat Kids’ Delight on Sunday.
Merzci’s Siopao Eating Contest: will be held at 9.m. from Friday to Sunday.
The festival concludes on Feb. 22 with Closing Ceremonies at 7 p.m. followed by the “Symphony of Lights and Sparks” fireworks display at 7:30 p.m.. the press release said.
Other Bacolaodiat events held across the city include:
· Megaworld The Upper East: Ongoing Chinese Lantern Installation Making Contest and nightly entertainment stages.
· SM City Bacolod: Chopsticks Alley at the Smile Strip; Lantern Dance Competition (Repeat Performance) and Awarding Ceremony on Feb. 22 at 2 PM.
· Ayala Malls Capitol Central: Chinese Mythical Creature Costume Design Contest on Feb. 21 at 2 PM.
“Bacolaodiat” is a portmanteau of “Baco” (Bacolod) and “laodiat” (Fookien for happy celebration). The festival is spearheaded by Bacolaodiat Incorporated, chaired by John Stephen Sy, with the support of the Bacolod City Government led by Mayor Greg Gasataya.
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