The Panaad sa Negros Festival is one of the biggest cultural events in the Philippines. It’s often called the Festival of Festivals. The event takes place at Panaad Park and Stadium in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental.
Every year, thousands of locals and tourists gather to enjoy food, dance, music, and crafts. If you’re planning to go, here’s how to get there the easy way.
Ways to Reach Bacolod City
First, you need to arrive in Bacolod, the capital of Negros Occidental. Here are your travel options:
Air Travel
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Book a flight to Silay-Bacolod Airport.
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The airport has daily trips from Manila, Cebu, and Davao.
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It takes 25 to 30 minutes by car to reach Panaad Park.
Sea Travel
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Take a fast craft or RORO from Iloilo City to Bacolod.
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From the Bacolod Port, you can take a taxi or jeepney to Barangay Mansilingan.
Land Travel
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From Dumaguete or nearby provinces, you can take a bus.
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Ask for directions to Panaad Stadium or Alijis Road once in Bacolod.
“This guide complements your trip by showing how to move around Bacolod.”
Getting to Panaad Park from Downtown Bacolod
If you’re already in Bacolod, there are many ways to reach Panaad Park:
Jeepney
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Ride a “Mansilingan” or “Alijis” jeepney.
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Tell the driver you’re going to Panaad or Carmen Steel (a nearby landmark).
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Fare is around ₱12–₱15.
Taxi or Grab
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Grab and taxis are available citywide.
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Fare ranges from ₱150 to ₱200.
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Travel time is about 15 to 20 minutes.
Tricycle or Motorcycle
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Tricycles and motorbikes (habal-habal) are common in Barangay Mansilingan.
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They are ideal for short trips or from nearby barangays.
Best Time to Travel to the Festival
Traffic can be heavy during the festival. Here are tips to travel smoothly:
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Arrive early in the morning or before 3:00 PM.
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Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
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Use Circumferential Road to avoid busy streets.
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The festival peaks in mid-April. Always check the latest schedule.
What You’ll See at the Festival
The Panaad sa Negros Festival offers something for everyone:
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Colorful pavilions from 32 cities and municipalities
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Local food and delicacies from Negros Occidental
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Handicrafts, souvenirs, and agri-tourism booths
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Live performances, dances, and evening concerts
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Fireworks displays inside Panaad Stadium
Most attractions are free to the public. Some concerts may have tickets.
Tips from Locals
Locals know how to enjoy the festival without stress. Here’s what they suggest:
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Bring cash – not all vendors accept digital payments.
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Wear comfortable clothes – April is hot in Bacolod.
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Try chicken inasal, buko juice, and kakanin.
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Stay hydrated and take care of your belongings.
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Be respectful of performers and booths.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Panaad Park located?
It’s in Barangay Mansilingan, Bacolod City, along Alijis Road.
When is the festival held?
Usually in April. The biggest events happen in the second week.
Is there parking at Panaad?
Yes. But it can fill up fast. Use public transport when possible.
Are there hotels near the park?
Yes. You can stay in Downtown Bacolod, Lacson Street, or near Libertad.
Can I visit the park on non-festival days?
Yes. The park is open year-round and used for jogging, events, and sports.
Final Thoughts
The Panaad sa Negros Festival is more than a celebration — it’s a showcase of pride, tradition, and unity across Negros Occidental. Getting there is easy, and the experience is unforgettable.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the festival offers a chance to explore the heart of Negrense culture — all in one vibrant place.