Bacolod City welcomed the Year of the Fire Horse yesterday, opening the 21st edition of the Bacolaodiat Festival, one of the country’s largest Chinese New Year celebrations.

The Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple led midnight prayers and the traditional striking of the drum and bell on Monday, February 16, to usher in the Lunar New Year. The temple is open to visitors daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. until February 22.

“As we unfold the festival’s 21st edition, we gather not only to celebrate the culturally rich revelries that await us, but also to recognize the energy and sustained momentum that have brought us to this point,” festival chair John Stephen Sy said in a statement.

The festival name combines “baco” for Bacolod and “lao diat,” Fookien for celebration, reflecting the city’s connection with the local Filipino-Chinese community.

Activities began at SM City Bacolod with the opening of Chopsticks Alley, while Megaworld’s The Upper East lit entries for the Chinese Lantern Installation Making Contest.

The three-day main festival at the Bacolod City Government Center grounds from February 20 to 22 will feature the Emperor’s Market, Imperial Village, food booths, and traditional arts and crafts.

Highlights include the Lantern Dance Competition on February 21, a children’s fashion show, and a Chinese Mythical Creature Costume Design Contest. The festival will conclude on February 22 with closing ceremonies and a fireworks display. (PNA)