The Bacolaodiat Festival 2025 is introducing new activities to usher in the Chinese Lunar New Year from January 31 to February 2, its organizers said on Tuesday, Jan. 21.
This year’s festival will usher in the year of the wood snake, Bacolaodiat Festival chair John Stephen Sy said at a press conference at the Mayor’s Office at the Bacolod City Government Center.
Bob Cordova said among the festival’s new activities is a Temple Design Contest that will take place at McDonald’s Upper East 6 p.m. on January 29.
Designers will present miniature temples combining traditional Chinese elements with modern design, offering an artistic showcase of cultural symbolism, he said.
A Snake Emperor and Empress Costume Design Contest featuring designs inspired by the Year of the Snake, with models presenting the costumes in a theatrical setting will also be held at the Ayala Malls Capitol Central at 2 p.m. on Feb. 1.
The Chinese Cosplay Invasion will also transform North Capitol Road into a creative playground 4 p.m. on February 2.
The cosplayers will showcase costumes inspired by Chinese folklore and pop culture, blending traditional and modern designs in a vibrant parade.
Festival sites include 5th to 13th Lacson Streets and the main festival site at the North Capitol Road.
This year’s Bacolaodiat Festival is set to feature cultural performances, a lantern street and arena dance competition, and an Asian food crawl.
Business tycoon Hans Sy will be honored as an “Adopted Son of Bacolod City” and Honorary Mayor during the festivities.
The following is the festival’s schedule of activities:
