MABALACAT CITY -- The street dance competition of Central Luzon's grandest festival, the Fiestang Caragan 2020, is all set on March 6.
The competition was cancelled last February 21 due to heath security risks brought by coronavirus disease (Covid-19).
The Mabalacat City Government re-scheduled Fiestang Caragan 2020, particularly its street dance competition and awarding ceremonies, after the Department of Health (DOH), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and Department of Tourism (DOT) announced that it is safe to organize and attend public gatherings, meetings and festivals as long as all precautionary measures identified by the DOH are observed.
Mayor Crisostomo Garbo said this year's celebration highlights the street dance competition and awarding ceremonies of different schools, both public and private.
Activities, including street and stage dance performances, as well as trade fairs, bazaars, and concerts, will start from February 26 to March 6.
Among the activities that would highlight the city's rich culture and heritage are the Bazaar/Tiangge (February 27 to March 6) Xevera Lot Only; Rak En Roll 2020 (Singing, Jammin', Food Festival) on February 26, 28, 29, March 1 and 3 at Xevera Lot Only; Makasining 2020 "National Arts Month" (February 27 to March 6) at Xevera Lot Only; Aeta Festival (February 27 to March 6) at the Clark Picnic Grounds; Fiestang Kababaihan 2020: Women Power Day 2020 (Zumba Competition) on March 2 at Xevera Lot Only; Farmer's Day (March 5) at Xevera Lot Only; Got Talent 2020 "Battle of the Champions" (March 4) at Xevera Lot Only; and Free Dance Interpretation/Showdown 2020 on March 5.
The city has been boosting the local tourism industry, which is at the crossroads of various developments, given its proximity to Clark. It also seeks to preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Kapampangans, particularly Mabalaquenos.
The festival was named after an Aeta chieftain named "Caragan," who is said to have founded Mabalacat.