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| Bacolaodiat Festival in Bacolod courtesy of Organizers |
2006 marked the beginning of the Bacolaodiat Festival in the City of Smiles, Bacolod, Philippines. The Bacolaodiat Festival is Bacolod's version of the Chinese New Year. Bacolaodiat according to its originators, came from two words, "Baco" from Bacolod and "Lao Diat" which is a Fookien word for celebration. From its simple beginnings it has now evolved into a great celebration with a Grand Parade, Lantern Dance Competition and Cultural Shows. Expect fireworks display, Chinese Dragons and Lions dancing in the streets and malls of Bacolod City. Of course, the yearly Chinese Animal Zodiac will again be displayed in prominent places around the City. It will be a sure boost for our tourism and economy.
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| Diwali Festival in Bacolod courtesy of Organizers |
In November last year, Bacolod celebrated the very first Diwali, India's Festival of Lights. Two holidays of Islam were celebrated last year, namely, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. All of these celebrations are done side by side and back to back with the Christian Christmas Holidays, the Feasts of the Santo Nino and St. Sebastian and the Secular celebrations of the Masskara Festival in October and the Panaad sa Negros Festival in April, a showcase of Festivals all over Negros. What diversity of emerging cultures which adds color and life to the City of Smiles! We have embraced all these with openness and mutual respect, aware of our unity in diversity.
