Celebrate the vibrancy of the MassKara Festival at home
Ever wonder why Bacolod City is known as the City of Smiles? It’s all thanks to the annual MassKara Festival! This vibrant event is a celebration like no other, with performers in colorful, ornamented masks, lively street parades, and a contagious energy that fills the air. The festival has become a symbol of Bacolod’s cultural resilience and joy, drawing visitors from all over the country and beyond.
But what’s even better is that you don’t have to be in Bacolod to experience the festive spirit.
Where MassKara originated
The word "MassKara" is a combination of "mass," which refers to the crowd, and the Spanish word "cara," meaning face. Together, it means “many faces,” but it also carries a deeper meaning. The smiling masks that participants wear are a reflection of Bacolod’s resilience, joy, and optimism.
The MassKara Festival takes place every October in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental. For over four decades, Bacolod has come alive with a series of activities that stretch throughout the month. The highlight of the celebration is the third weekend of October when the city’s streets transform into a kaleidoscope of music, dance, and joy.
A festival born from resilience
The story of the MassKara Festival is one of triumph over adversity. In 1980, Bacolod faced a deep crisis. The city’s economy, heavily dependent on the sugar industry, had taken a severe hit. To make things worse, the MV Don Juan ferry sank, claiming the lives of many Negrenses.
In the face of these hardships, the people of Bacolod refused to give up. The local government, together with artists and civic groups, organized the first MassKara Festival as a way to uplift the spirits of the community. The festival, with its vibrant colors and cheerful masks, became a symbol of hope and unity—a reminder that no matter how difficult times may get, Bacolod’s spirit will always shine through.
Since then, the MassKara Festival has grown into one of the country’s biggest cultural events, attracting international attention and bringing together people from all walks of life.
What to expect at the MassKara Festival
If you ever find yourself in Bacolod during the MassKara Festival, here’s what you can look forward to:
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Street dance competition
This is undoubtedly the heart of the festival. Performers, dressed in elaborate, brightly colored costumes and masks, take to the streets to showcase their incredible choreography. Each group competes for the top spot, making the event a thrilling spectacle to watch.
MassKara queen pageant
A beauty pageant that celebrates not just beauty, but intelligence, grace, and cultural pride. The MassKara Queen represents the best of Bacolod, showcasing the talent and poise of the city’s women.
Float parade and exhibits
Marvel at the creativity on display as floats parade through the city streets. Each one is carefully crafted with stunning designs that reflect the festival's themes of joy, hope, and resilience.
Nightly events
As night falls, the festival doesn’t lose any of its energy. The Electric MassKara transforms the streets into a party with lights, music, and non-stop dancing. The fun continues well into the night, making it a truly 24/7 celebration!
Bring the MassKara spirit to home
Can’t make it to Bacolod this year? No worries! You can celebrate the MassKara Festival from the comfort of your home.
Get creative with masks
Who says you need to be in Bacolod to join in on the fun?
You can make your vibrant MassKara-inspired masks at home with the MÅLA paintbrush set. It comes with 6 brushes, perfect for letting your artistic side shine. Pair it with the SOLFÅGEL acrylic paint and MÅLA glitter paint to add that extra sparkle and vibrancy to your creations. It’s a great activity for the whole family to enjoy, bringing the festive spirit to your living room.
Host a viewing party
Bring friends and family together for a MassKara viewing party!
Set up your own festival area at home with the GUNDE folding chairs and the STRANDÖN folding table. These space-saving, easy-to-store pieces are perfect for an impromptu get-together, allowing you to create a comfortable space for everyone to enjoy the festival highlights on TV or live stream.
Celebrate outdoors
TBring the joy of MassKara indoors with a family cooking day. Prepare your favorite Bacolod-inspired recipes in MIDDAGSMAT and HEMLAGAD cookware, and keep your space organized with RÅSKOG. Have the whole family gather around the table and make every bite part of the celebration.
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Celebrating outdoors
Turn your backyard or balcony into a mini MassKara celebration. Remember, why the MassKara Festival is celebrated: it’s about joy, resilience, and coming together.
Light up the celebration
Create the right atmosphere for your MassKara-inspired gathering with a festive glow. STRÅLA and RODFLIK lights add warmth and brightness, making your outdoor or indoor space feel more joyful. With the right lighting, every meal feels like part of the festival.
Set the table with color
MassKara is all about vibrance, and your table can reflect that. Use dinnerware like STRIMMIG or GLADELIG to serve Bacolod-inspired dishes with style. They’re durable, practical, and perfect for meals meant to be shared.
Gather around in comfort
No celebration is complete without a place to sit together and share. A sturdy LISABO dining table paired with LISABO chairs creates a welcoming spot for family and friends. It’s where laughter, stories, and flavors all happen.
As the MassKara Festival approaches, let’s celebrate together! Enjoy convenient delivery right to your doorstep, or pick up your essentials with our IKEA free Click & Collect service. If you’re from Bacolod, you can also use the IKEA Iloilo Collection Point, just a short trip away from your home. Whatever you decide, you’ll definitely feel the festivities that await during the MassKara Festival.
