Prepare to experience the delights of the City of Smiles as the highly anticipated Bacolod Chicken Inasal Festival is set to kick off from May 24 to May 26.
The festival, which has the backing of executives from Megaworld, Ayala, and SM malls, intends to introduce the world to Bacolod's famous chicken inasal.
For the festival, which will take place in three locations—Megaworld-Upper East, SM local Bacolod, and Ayala Malls Capitol Central—the local government set aside P2 million.
Going Global
The festival is set to highlight Bacolod's rich culinary legacy and colorful culture like never before, with an aim to establish platforms and gateways for both national and international audiences.
“This 2024, the celebration shall focus on creating platforms and portals for the global and national audience. After discovering its roots and paying homage to its history, it’s time to share the Bacolod Chicken Inasal Festival with the rest of the world,” the city government said in a statement.
A wide range of activities are planned for the festival, such as the Chicken Inasal Global Beats Competition (street dance), the Bacolod Chicken Inasal Awards, the Barangay Inasal Cook-Off & Workshops, and the Food Tasting & Beer Pairing.
Looking back
As per the City Ordinance 1012-2022, Bacolod has designated chicken inasal as its cultural property.
Before taking a three-year break due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the first Bacolod Chicken Inasal Festival was held in 2018 and followed by another in 2019.
When the festival returned in 2023, a 320-meter-long chicken grilling station prepared by about 70 concessionaires was on display.
