Each year, Bacolod City becomes the center of color, music, and celebration. The Panaad sa Negros Festival is a week-long event in Negros Occidental. It honors local culture, food, and the people of every town and city in the province.
Here are ten magical moments you should not miss in Panaad Stadium.
The Parade That Starts It All
The opening parade kicks off the fun. Dancers fill the streets in bright costumes. Drumbeats echo as floats move past cheering crowds. It’s the perfect way to welcome the festival.
Every local government unit (LGU) joins the celebration.
Pavilions That Tell Unique Stories
Each town and city sets up its own booth, called a pavilion. These showcase what makes their place special.
Inside you’ll find:
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Local food and delicacies
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Handmade crafts and products
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Traditional displays and mini museums
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Free food tasting and photo spots
It’s like visiting every part of Negros Occidental in one place.
Cultural Shows That Share History
At night, the stage comes alive. Performers tell stories through music and dance. Some shows are based on legends. Others show how people lived in the past.
The shows often include:
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Folk dances with native costumes
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Songs using local instruments
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Short dramas with deep meaning
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School and community group acts
These shows are both fun and meaningful.
Food That Tastes Like Home
Hungry? The Panaad Festival has something for every taste. You’ll find many stalls offering both street food and traditional meals.
Popular bites include:
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Chicken inasal from Bacolod
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Kansi (a tangy beef soup)
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Piaya and napoleones from Silay
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Fresh seafood from coastal towns
Local drinks, fruit wines, and sweets are also available.
A Garden Fair With a Purpose
Visit the agri-trade fair for fresh produce and garden displays. Local farmers and gardeners set up colorful booths.
You can explore:
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Bonsai trees and flowering plants
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Organic fruits and herbs
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Native coffee and honey
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Livestock and farming demos
It’s a peaceful break from the crowd.
Travel Info at Tourism Booths
Each LGU also shares travel ideas. You can stop by their booths for guides and tips.
Places worth seeing include:
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Beaches in Sipalay
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Mountains in Don Salvador Benedicto
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Heritage homes in Silay City
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Waterfalls and rivers in San Carlos
Some booths even offer sample tours.
Dance Battles on the Streets
One of the most exciting parts is the street dance competition. Teams compete with loud beats, fast moves, and big smiles.
The best parts are:
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Bright and detailed costumes
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Dancers full of energy
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Drums and chants that pump you up
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Big crowds cheering for their towns
It’s a true battle of rhythm and pride.
Fireworks That Light Up the Night
At the end of a fun-filled day, the sky turns bright. Fireworks shoot high above the stadium. People pause to enjoy the colors and sounds.
It’s the festival’s way of saying, “Thank you for coming.”
Fun for the Whole Family
Panaad Park has more than food and shows. There are kid-friendly areas too.
Families can enjoy:
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Inflatable play zones
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Art corners and crafts
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Animal exhibits and petting zoos
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Forest trails and picnic spots
There’s something for everyone, no matter the age.
A Festival That Grows Every Year
Each year, Panaad sa Negros gets bigger and better. New ideas keep it fresh. More cities and guests join in. Yet the heart of the festival stays the same.
It remains a celebration of home, heritage, and hope.
Plan Your Visit to Panaad
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Where: Panaad Park and Sports Complex, Bacolod City
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When: Usually in April (check local updates)
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Entrance Fee: Free for everyone
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What to Bring: Light clothes, comfy shoes, and cash for shopping
✨ Final Thought
The Panaad Festival is not just an event. It’s a full experience. From tasty food to joyful dances, it shows the best of Negros Occidental.
Make time for this festival. You’ll go home with stories worth sharing.