Bacolod: The MassKara Festival dancers from this city will be among the international performing groups during the 2026 Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade in Hong Kong on Feb. 17.
According to Philippines News Agency, the street dance champions from Barangay Tangub will represent the MassKara dancers for the second time at this event, following their initial appearance in 2024 alongside dancers from Barangay Granada. The parade, which marks the beginning of the Year of the Fire Horse, will commence at 8 p.m. in Tsim Sha Tsui, as announced by the Hong Kong Tourism Board.
On Sunday, the MassKara dancers showcased their talents during the 2026 Sinulog Festival street dancing and ritual showdown in Cebu City. City Tourism Officer Teresa Manalili stated that the dancers exhibited Bacolod's culture and creativity, contributing to cultural exchange between Cebu and Bacolod.
The Bacolod contingent to the Sinulog Festival comprised 60 dancers and more than 100 propsmen. Tangub village chief Noli Villarosa expressed his delight at the positive reception of their performance in Cebu.
In 2024, the MassKara dancers from Barangay Sum-ag participated in the Lantern Festival in Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, and the Busan International Dance Festival in Busan, South Korea in 2023. Additionally, in 2023, the dancers from Barangay Granada made their debut in New York during the 125th Philippine Independence Anniversary Commemoration Parade on Madison Avenue.
MassKara is celebrated as one of the country's most vibrant festivals, featuring performers in smiling masks and colorful costumes inspired by mardi gras, dancing through the streets and arenas.
