Pasalamat Festival

La Carlota City in the southwestern part of central Negros Island lies at the foot od sacred mt. kanla-on, the highest peak in Central Visayas. Home to one of the oldest and most prominent sugar mills in the province. A perfect sphere for nature lovers, as well for photographers. 
The rich of cultural heritage of La Carlota city is manifested through the celebration of the Pasalamat festival, which falls every last week of april nearest to Labor day May 1.

Paslamat festival is based on the tradition of giving thanks to gods of elements after a bountiful harvest by the ancient of Buglas. The city takes on a festival atmosphere during the week long celebration, which culminates with a Mardi Gras like parade of floats and caricatures, Dancers flirtatiously move to the rhythm created by the drum-beaters using carabao leather drums and percussion instruments made out of indigenous materials.
The Festival was first staged on May 1, 1980, after a series of calamities fall in Negros Occidental, particularly in La Carlota City. The Fire gutted the commercial district of the city, the don Juan tragedy, the labor problem that company, and some other uncertain conditions prevailing in the early 80's.

The Festival was conceptualized by the late Mayor Luis Jalandoni Jr., who himself composed the *sambita* the original Paslamat beat, the Festival started in just a simple merry making and street dacing to mark the end of the milling and harvest season to thank the Divine almighty for His Blessing.
Paslamat Festival has gone a long way and it is not merely a thanksgiving event but an affirmation of the indomitable spirit of La Carlotenos.
Come, Experience, and explore La Carlota City.