Bacolod: This highly urbanized city welcomed the Year of the Fire Horse on Tuesday, opening the 21st edition of the Bacolaodiat Festival, one of the country's largest Chinese New Year celebrations. The Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple led midnight prayers and the traditional striking of the drum and bell on Monday to usher in the Lunar New Year. The temple is open to visitors daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. until Feb. 22.
According to Philippines News Agency, as the festival's 21st edition unfolds, festival chair John Stephen Sy highlighted the importance of celebrating the culturally rich revelries and recognizing the energy and sustained momentum that have brought the community to this point. The festival name combines "Baco" for Bacolod and "Lao Diat," Fookien for celebration, reflecting the city's connection with the local Filipino-Chinese community.
Activities began at SM City Bacolod with the opening of Chopsticks Alley, while Megaworld's The Upper East lit entries for the Chinese Lantern Installation Making Contest. The three-day main festival at the Bacolod City Government Center grounds from Feb. 20 to 22 will feature the Emperor's Market, Imperial Village, food booths, and traditional arts and crafts.
Highlights include the Lantern Dance Competition on Feb. 21, a children's fashion show, and a Chinese Mythical Creature Costume Design Contest. The festival will conclude on Feb. 22 with closing ceremonies and a fireworks display.
