Bacolaodiat 2012: Countdown to the Dragon year begins

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines  — The holidays in this city continue with another forthcoming celebration, the Chinese New Year to be held in tandem with the Bacolaodiat Festival on January 20-22 at the Lacson Tourism Strip and the North Capitol Road, and the New Year’s Day on January 23 at SM City Bacolod and the New Government Center.

During the Bacolaodiat Festival 2012, the Lacson Tourism Strip will be painted red with a grand parade from the mall to the North Capitol Road, followed by a Cultural Show in the evening.

On January 21, mascots will line up the streets of Lacson where children can have their souvenir photos taken, and in the evening will be the Kapuso as GMA Night featuring showbiz artists and talents, followed by the Fireworks Display and live bands show. 

On January 22, the Bacolaodiat Festival will showcase the Lantern Dance Contest participated in by different barangays and groups wearing costumes patterned after the authentic Chinese Minority costumes, colorful lanterns and unique dance steps.

The festival on New Year’s Day, January 23, will have the announcement and awarding of the Lantern Dance Contest winners, and then the Kapamilya Day of ABS-CBN’s artists and talents before the Symphony of Lights and Sparks (fireworks display) and live bands in the evening.

The 7th Bacolaodiat Festival will usher in the year of the Dragon with the theme: A Majestic Spirit in a Challenging Year.  (FREEMAN)