36th MassKara Festival kicks off BACOLOD

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — The city’s world-famous MassKara Festival, now on its 36th year, kicked off with an opening salvo at the Public Plaza last Thursday.

Activities on the first day were a Fun Run from the People’s House to the Plaza, and a Fun Walk from the Provincial Capitol Lagoon to the Plaza in the morning, and then a Zumba at the People’s House in the afternoon, aimed at setting a national record for the biggest Zumba party in the Visayas.

Last September 26, MassKara already opened various festival sites like the Araneta and San Juan Fiesta Alley, the Pet, Art and Garden Exhibits at the People’s House, MassKara Carnivals and the MassKara Seafood Alley at Punta Taytay viewing decks.

The highlights this year include MassKara by the Sea at Barangay Punta Taytay on October 10 and 11; pageant and coronation night of MassKara Queen at the SMX Convention Center (October 12); Arena and Street Dance Competition (October 16 and 17); Electric MassKara (October 18); and Charter Day Celebration and MassKaraffle (October 19).

“We are very excited to share the happiness of MassKara to more tourists and visitors this year, that is why, we call on every Bacolodnon to participate and prove why MassKara is at par with the world’s best festivals,” said festival director Rhoderick Samonte.

He added: “MassKara Festival this year is geared towards raising funds for the Bacolod City Police Office. The city government of Bacolod and KBDFI aspire to provide our peace keepers with new motorcycle units.” —Marchel P. Espina (FREEMAN)