NEGROS Occidental is showcasing two of its best festivities during the "Fiestas in the City," an event organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) in Western Visayas to boost the region's travel destinations.

The province will again take pride of the world renowned MassKara Festival of Bacolod City, and Babaylan Festival of Bago City during the six-day event at Northpoint Event Center of SM City Iloilo from May 25 to 31 this year.

Cristine Mansinares, provincial supervising tourism operations officer, said festivals are among the tourism events and offerings that have been attracting local and foreign tourists.

The province, through its participation in the event, could further position itself as a top travel destination in the country, she added.

The "Fiestas in the City" is in collaboration with SM City Iloilo and provincial governments in Western Visayas.

The event tagged as Western Visayas Regional Travel Destination Exhibit presents the different tourism offerings of various destinations in the region.

During the grand opening on Saturday, May 25, the regional line agency showcased various festivals in the region including the Masskara Festival and Kansilay Festival of Silay City.

There will be a daily showcase of cultural performances from each of the component provinces and highly-urbanized cities.

The Capiz and Antique Day was held on May 26 while Aklan is on May 27; Guimaras - May 29; Iloilo Province - May 30; and Iloilo City, Negros Occidental and Bacolod City - May 31.

"Our MassKara and Babaylan dancers will stun audience from Western Visayas and other parts of the country," Mansinares said, adding that these festivals reflect the rich culture, history and traditions as well as artistry and creativity of the Negrenses.