The Panaad sa Negros Festival is not just about performances and parades. It’s also a great time to explore and support local products.
From food to crafts, every booth offers something special. These treasures come from the 44 towns and cities of Negros Occidental. Many are handmade, homegrown, and full of culture.
Here’s what you should look for.
Explore Sweet Delicacies from Negros
Food is a major highlight at the festival. Most of these treats are easy to carry and make perfect pasalubong.
Piaya
This sweet flat pastry is filled with muscovado sugar. It’s often cooked fresh at the stalls.
Tip: Look for vendors from Silay and Bago City.
Napoleones
This flaky pastry is filled with custard and topped with a sugar glaze.
Best from: Bacolod City bakeries.
Muscovado Sugar and Syrups
Negros is known for sugar. At the festival, you’ll find unrefined muscovado, organic syrups, and sweet snacks.
Great finds at: booths marked “Negros Organic”.
Bring Home Handmade Crafts
If you want something lasting, check out the wide range of local crafts.
Bamboo Decor
Frames, vases, and lamps made from local bamboo are both eco-friendly and beautiful.
Commonly sold by: artisans from Don Salvador Benedicto.
Handwoven Towels and Blankets
These textiles are soft, durable, and woven using traditional methods.
Tip: Visit the booths from Talisay and La Castellana.
Native Bags and Jewelry
Bags made of buri, pandan, or abaca are colorful and practical.
Look for them in: Sagay and Cadiz booths.
“First-timers will love these gift ideas and local finds.”
Sip and Snack Like a Local
Looking for drinks and quick pasalubong items? These are crowd favorites.
Buko Pandan Juice
Sweet and refreshing. You’ll often find it served cold in reusable cups.
Available at: food courts and refreshment stalls.
Mount Kanlaon Coffee
Coffee grown in volcanic soil has a rich flavor. Many beans are organic.
Find this at: booths from Canlaon and San Carlos.
Flavored Vinegar
Also called suka, these vinegars come in garlic, chili, or ginger blends.
Popular among: home cooks and chefs.
Where to Shop at Panaad
All these products are inside the Panaad Park and Sports Complex in Bacolod City. Each local government unit (LGU) has its own booth. These booths proudly display their town’s best food and crafts.
Good to know:
- Most stalls accept cash and GCash
- Some booths allow free taste and product demos
- Signs and banners show the town of origin
Tips for a Better Shopping Experience
Use these quick tips to shop smarter:
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and heat
- Bring eco bags to carry your purchases
- Ask questions — vendors love to share stories
- Take photos (with permission) of crafts and displays
- Stay hydrated — free water stations are available
Why These Souvenirs Matter
These products are more than just items. They are a part of the people’s lives.
By buying local, you help small businesses grow. You also support sustainable farming, traditional skills, and cultural pride in the Philippines.
Each item tells a story of a town, a family, and a way of life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where is Panaad Festival held?
It happens at Panaad Park and Sports Complex in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental.
Do I need to pay to enter?
Entrance is free, but some events and shows may have tickets.
Are these products available year-round?
Some items are seasonal. But others can be bought in Bacolod pasalubong centers or directly from local shops.
Can I use cards or digital wallets?
Mostly GCash or Maya. Credit cards are accepted by some modern booths.
Is the area child-friendly?
Yes. The festival has family zones, shaded areas, and even cultural exhibits for kids.
Final Thoughts
The Panaad Festival is more than an event. It’s a showcase of Negros’ finest.
So if you plan to visit, don’t leave without a piece of it. Whether it’s piaya, a handwoven towel, or a bottle of native vinegar, each one is a treasure worth keeping.