LA CARLOTA City’s longest-running Pasalamat Festival will return on April 23 to 29.

The festival’s original Samba beat and the colorful vibrancy of the Mardi Gras Parade will be showcased by the 24 tribes joining the Grand Parade on the last day of the celebration.

Pasalamat Festival channels a Rio de Janiero Carnival vibe and considered as the first of its kind in Negros.

Started in 1979 as a brainchild of then-mayor Luis Jalandoni, it is a thanksgiving celebration of the La Carloteños to the Almighty for the gift of life, perseverance, and harvest.

In 1981, it was accredited by the Department of Tourism as a Philippine Fiesta Island destination. Over the years, the week-long festival has attracted over 200,000 local and foreign spectators annually.

Pasalamat Festival 2018 features exhibits, sports events, job fair and the much-awaited Finals Night of the 15th Season of the Awit-Sayaw Talent Search.

Festival highlights include the Rhythm Competition, Arena Dance Contest and the Search for the Pasalamat Festival Queen. This year, 16 smart, beautiful and fierce ladies will be vying for the crown and title as the Pasalamat Festival Queen.

For inquiries, please visit the City Tourism Office at the City Hall or call at (034) 4600-286. For Pasalamat Festival updates, visit www.lacarlotacity.net or Facebook account Mangkas Tribune. (PR)