5 Fun Things to Do in Plaza de Masskara: Bacolod’s Newest Lifestyle Hub

Every city needs a place where people can slow down, meet up, and simply enjoy being outdoors. In Bacolod City, that newest gathering place is Plaza de Masskara.

Located inside Megaworld’s 34-hectare The Upper East township, the 4,100-square-meter public plaza celebrates the spirit of the city’s iconic Masskara Festival through art, open spaces, and community-friendly features. While it may not be the largest park in Bacolod, it offers plenty of reasons to stop by, whether you’re a local looking for a new hangout or a visitor exploring the City of Smiles.

Here are five fun things to do in Plaza de Masskara and why each one makes the space worth visiting.

1. Challenge a Friend to a Game of Giant Chess

One of the plaza’s most unique attractions is its pair of giant chessboards complete with oversized, movable pieces. More than just a photo backdrop, they invite visitors to interact with the space, turning a simple stroll into a friendly match or a fun family activity. It’s a small feature that encourages people to stay a little longer and enjoy the plaza together.

2. Take a Leisurely Walk Around the Plaza

Sometimes the best activity is simply taking your time. Plaza de Masskara features five-meter-wide promenades lined with palm trees, creating shaded walkways that make exploring the area more comfortable. The paths also connect visitors to nearby restaurants, cafés, and retail spaces, making it easy to pair your visit with a meal, coffee break, or a bit of shopping.

3. Discover the Art Inspired by Bacolod

The plaza pays tribute to Bacolod’s rich cultural identity through thoughtfully designed landmarks. Overlooking the space is the 16-foot Reina de Masskara sculpture on the podium of the upcoming Kingsford Hotel, celebrating the city’s world-famous festival.

At the center of the plaza, a decorative compass highlights the North and East directions, reflecting the inspiration behind the name “The Upper East.” Together, these details give visitors a chance to appreciate local culture beyond the festival season.

4. Slow Down and Enjoy the Outdoors

Not every visit has to be packed with activities.

With benches, tables, shaded areas, and accessible public facilities, Plaza de Masskara offers a comfortable place to relax, catch up with friends, or simply enjoy a quiet break outdoors. In a fast-growing district, having an open public space where people can gather without rushing from one place to another is part of what makes the plaza special.

5. Enjoy the Community Events

While the plaza is enjoyable on any day, it is designed to become even livelier during community celebrations.

Weekend markets, cultural performances, and signature events such as the Masskara Festival and the Bacolod Chicken Inasal Festival are expected to bring even more energy to the space, giving visitors new reasons to return throughout the year.

READ: Megaworld Expansion Brings New Opportunities to Pampanga, Iloilo, Bacolod, and Davao

A New Place to Experience Bacolod

More than just another stop inside The Upper East, Plaza de Masskara reflects Bacolod’s welcoming spirit through public art, walkable spaces, and areas designed for everyday community life.

Whether you’re stopping by for a quick photo, a relaxing afternoon walk, or one of the city’s upcoming cultural events, it’s a place that brings together the vibrant character of the City of Smiles in one thoughtfully designed public space.