Most people know Panaad Stadium for football. In fact, it became famous during the rise of Ceres-Negros FC. However, this stadium wasn’t just about sports.
Over the years, it also hosted huge concerts that brought music and energy to Bacolod City. These events turned Panaad into a stage for top artists, community events, and unforgettable nights.
Let’s look back at some of the most iconic concerts ever held at this historic stadium.
When OPM Rocked the Stadium
“Panaad isn’t just for sports—it also serves as a multipurpose event space.”
First, local rock music helped define the stadium’s energy in the early 2000s.
These shows included:
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Performances by Parokya ni Edgar, Rivermaya, and others
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Concerts scheduled right after Panaad Stadium football matches
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Crowds filling the stands to enjoy back-to-back sports and music
Because of this, fans began to see Panaad as more than just a sports venue.
Festival Concerts That Lit Up Bacolod
Every year, the MassKara Festival fills Bacolod with color, dance, and sound. Panaad became the main concert venue for its biggest nights.
Here’s what made it special:
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Big stars like Sarah Geronimo and Bamboo took the stage
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Fireworks and light shows made every event feel magical
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Tourists and locals gathered to celebrate Negros pride
As a result, these concerts helped boost local tourism and city branding.
International Acts That Surprised the Crowd
While most shows featured local stars, Panaad also welcomed some international guests.
These surprise moments included:
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Pop bands from Asia performing during special tours
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Guest DJs during music festivals
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Cultural exchange shows hosted by foreign groups
Even though these acts were rare, they brought global flair to a local space.
Nights of Nostalgia and Music Tributes
Tribute concerts were also a big hit at Panaad. They brought old songs back to life and connected generations.
These shows featured:
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Music inspired by Freddie Aguilar, Francis M, and more
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Families enjoying OPM classics under the stars
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Community events tied to local holidays or sports victories
Thanks to these shows, Panaad became a place for both memories and music.
Celebrations After Football Matches
The success of Ceres Negros FC brought more than trophies. It brought parties.
After-match concerts often included:
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Local bands playing victory sets
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Fans celebrating with drums and chants
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Players joining fans on the field
This mix of football and music gave fans something else to cheer for — even after the game ended.
Concerts With a Cause
Panaad also served the community in deeper ways. Some concerts raised awareness or supported good causes.
These included:
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Benefit concerts for schools, health programs, or disaster relief
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Free shows organized by the Negros Occidental government
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Local artists using the stage to share meaningful messages
As a result, music at Panaad became a tool for helping others.
A Stage for Bacolod’s Rising Talent
Many new artists from Bacolod City found their start at Panaad. It was their first big stage.
These performances were often seen in:
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School-based battle of the bands
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Local music showcases during festivals
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Pre-event sets before sports matches
Panaad helped turn local dreams into real performances.
Why These Concerts Still Matter Today
Even though many people remember the stadium for sports, its musical history lives on.
Here’s why it matters:
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It boosted local business and nightlife, especially during major events.
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By hosting concerts, Panaad showed the world that Bacolod is a true cultural hub.
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More importantly, the venue gave people a space to connect — not just through sports, but through shared musical experiences.
Because of these concerts, Panaad became more than a stadium. It became a symbol of celebration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What kinds of concerts were held at Panaad?
Panaad hosted rock, pop, tribute, benefit, and festival concerts. Some were tied to sports events and local celebrations.
Are concerts still held at the stadium today?
Yes. While less frequent, the stadium still hosts large-scale events and festival shows.
Where is Panaad Stadium located?
It is located in Barangay Mansilingan, Bacolod City, within the Panaad Park and Sports Complex, Negros Occidental.
Did concerts happen after football games?
Yes. Many concerts took place after major matches, especially during the peak of Ceres Negros FC.
Can local artists perform at Panaad?
Absolutely. Many new acts from Western Visayas got their first big break performing there.