Every April, the Panaad Sa Negros Festival brings together the best of Negros Occidental. It’s more than a festival — it’s a celebration of culture, food, and local pride.
Held at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Bacolod City, the event showcases food from 32 cities and municipalities. Each town has its own pavilion, where you can taste their best dishes.
If you’re hungry and curious, here are ten foods you should try at the festival.
Inasal from Bacolod
Chicken Inasal is grilled over charcoal and brushed with oil, garlic, and spices. It’s juicy, smoky, and full of flavor.
Where to find: Bacolod City Pavilion
Try it with: Garlic rice and spicy vinegar.
“Many food finds can be discovered within the LGU food sections.”
Piaya from Bago
Piaya is a sweet flatbread with muscovado sugar inside. It’s soft, chewy, and slightly crispy on the outside.
Where to find: Bago City Pavilion
Best eaten: Warm and fresh from the griddle.
Kansi from Talisay
Kansi is a beef soup that tastes like a mix of bulalo and sinigang. It uses batwan, a local sour fruit.
Where to find: Talisay City Pavilion
Look for: A big chunk of bone marrow inside.
Puto from Manapla
Manapla puto is a soft, steamed rice cake. It’s simple but delicious, often served with dinuguan (blood stew).
Where to find: Manapla Pavilion
Try it with: Hot chocolate or savory dishes.
Valenciana from Silay
Valenciana is a rice dish with chicken, sausage, and spices. It’s like Filipino paella, but stickier.
Where to find: Silay City Pavilion
Tip: Ask if they use native chicken for more flavor.
Lechon from San Carlos
Lechon is whole roasted pig. It’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of herbs.
Where to find: San Carlos Pavilion
Don’t miss: Lechon belly for easier portions.
Panara from Victorias
Panara is a deep-fried dumpling. It’s filled with mung bean sprouts, pork, and vegetables.
Where to find: Victorias Pavilion
Dip it in: Spiced vinegar.
Baye-Baye from La Carlota
Baye-Baye is a sticky treat made of young coconut and ground rice. It’s chewy, sweet, and homemade.
Where to find: La Carlota Pavilion
Texture: Similar to mochi, but local.
Sinamak from Negros Occidental
Sinamak is spiced vinegar with garlic, chili, and ginger. It adds a kick to grilled meats and fried food.
Where to find: Provincial Capitol Pavilion
Buy it as: A souvenir in a bottle.
Budbud and Sikwate from Escalante
Budbud is a sticky rice roll wrapped in banana leaf. Sikwate is thick hot chocolate made from tablea.
Where to find: Escalante Pavilion
Best time to eat: Early morning or merienda.
Tips for Foodies at the Festival
Visit more than one pavilion – each town has its own special dish.
Come early – mornings are less crowded.
Bring cash – not all stalls accept digital payments.
Use reusable containers if possible – it’s better for the environment.
Take photos – but eat while it’s hot!
Why This Festival Is Special
Panaad Festival is called the “Festival of Festivals” for a reason. It celebrates the food, culture, and identity of every city and town in Negros Occidental.
Each dish is a story. A story of family, farming, and flavor passed down through generations. You’re not just eating — you’re learning.
FAQs
Where is the Panaad Festival held?
At Panaad Park and Stadium in Bacolod City, Philippines.
When does the festival happen?
Usually in April, during the summer season.
Can tourists join the festival?
Yes, everyone is welcome — both locals and visitors.
Do all LGUs serve food?
Yes. Each of the 32 LGU pavilions has its own food stall.
Can I bring home food or pasalubong?
Absolutely. Many stalls sell food you can take home.
Come Hungry, Leave Happy
Panaad Sa Negros is the perfect event for food lovers. From the sweet and sticky to the crispy and spicy, there’s something for every taste. Make sure to visit, eat well, and discover the true flavors of Negros Occidental.