This photo taken from the Masskara Festival held
annually in Bacolod City, Philippines is just
oozing with rich color and vibrant cultural excitement. I couldn’t resist
putting it out in the air for potential visitors. Known as the “City of Smiles,” these folks kick off their Rio
de Janeiro style fiesta with mask-making contests, food fairs, brass band competitions not to mention a windsurfing
regatta. The Masskara festivities are held the third week of October with the final pay-off on the
weekend closest to October 19, when the city celebrates their charter day anniversary.
Bacolod is located in central Philippines on the
Negros Island, capital of Negros Occidental Province.