Pintaflores Festival Schedule of Activities

My Journey to Pintaflores Festival: Where Nature and Art Unite

Hey, fabulous travelers and festival enthusiasts! I’m beyond excited to share my upcoming adventure with you. This year, I’ve been invited as one of the judges at the Pintaflores Festival in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental. I couldn’t pass up this incredible opportunity to immerse myself in the vibrant culture and captivating history of this lesser-known gem of a festival.

The Schedule of Activities for the Pintaflores Festival

Pintaflores Festival Schedule of Activities

The Backstory: A Unique Fusion of Art and Nature

Every November, right after we light candles to honor our departed loved ones, the streets of San Carlos City come alive with the Pintaflores Festival. This remarkable celebration beautifully merges the elegance of flowers with the rugged allure of tattoos. The result is a visual feast that sets this festival apart.

A Look Back: The Fascinating History of Pintaflores Festival

The roots of Pintaflores run deep, going back to the Spanish colonial era. The festival emerged as a fusion of two distinct local celebrations: the Nabingkalan Tattoo Festival and the Dances of Flowers. This unique blend officially became the city’s signature festival in 1992, and it’s all about gratitude and tradition. The Dances of Flowers tell stories of life, death, and the triumph of good over evil, all as praises to the city’s patron saint, San Carlos Borromeo.

The dancers themselves are a sight to behold, adorned with vibrant flower designs meticulously painted on their faces, arms, bodies, and legs. They wear ethnic-style costumes and perform dance rituals that often take the form of intricate human flower formations. The name “Pintaflores” combines “Pintados,” inspired by the Nabingkalan Tattoo Festival, with “Flores,” the Spanish word for flowers, inspired by the Dances of Flowers. It’s a festival that fuses tradition and artistry in a way you won’t find anywhere else.

What Awaits You: A Dazzling Display of Culture and Art at Pintaflores Festival  

Now, let me share why you should consider experiencing the Pintaflores Festival for yourself. The main event takes place on November 5, with the streets coming alive with colorful street dancing and a vibrant ritual competition. The energy is infectious, and everyone, locals and tourists alike, joins in the festivities. Dancing with friendly locals and fellow travelers is an experience you won’t forget.

Beyond Pintaflores Festival: Exploring San Carlos City

But the festival is just the beginning. San Carlos City has so much more to offer. Explore the city’s rich cultural heritage, from ancestral houses to the stunning San Carlos Borromeo Cathedral, which uniquely blends Byzantine, Gothic, and Romanesque architecture.

For nature lovers, nearby attractions like Alinsyawan Falls, Choco Hills, and Lapus Cave await exploring. For a more tranquil experience, you can escape to Sipaway Island for an overnight stay or visit the La Fortuna Nature and Wildlife Lagoon in Brgy. Buluangan.

And, of course, don’t miss the opportunity to savor the local cuisine. Seafood is a must-try, from dried fish to exotic shellfish. And if you’re a fan of Filipino cuisine, you’ll want to indulge in the famous chicken inasal.

Getting There: Your Journey to Pintaflores Festival 

Getting to San Carlos City is relatively straightforward. You can catch a flight from Manila to Bacolod City in just 45 minutes, or from Cebu City in 30 minutes. If you’re up for a maritime adventure, there are ferry services from Manila, some of which make stops in San Carlos. From Bacolod City, simply take a bus to reach San Carlos City.

So, please mark your calendars and join me at the Pintaflores Festival in San Carlos City. As a judge this year, I’m looking forward to a truly immersive experience, and I can’t wait to share all the vibrant moments, delicious food, and rich culture with you. It’s a unique festival that beautifully blends art, nature, and history, and I’m thrilled to be part of the adventure. Let’s make this year’s Pintaflores one to remember!

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