Last year, FILAMemphis Inc., which has celebrated and preserved the Filipino heritage in Memphis since 1977, hosted Memphis’ first-ever Philippine Fiesta, and now, it’s ready to bring it back — even bigger than the first.
“It is our way of showcasing the richness and diversity of Filipino heritage, not just for Filipinos, but for the entire Memphis and Mid-South community to enjoy,” says Roy Alinsub, FILAMemphis’ president. “It’s, at its core, essentially, a heartfelt thank you to Memphis, a city that has welcomed and embraced Filipino Americans over the years.”
The day will be a “full sensory immersion into Filipino culture,” Alinsub says. “Once the gates open, [festival-goers] will be welcomed with aroma of traditional Filipino street food. Our food vendors are serving authentic flavors out of the grill or fryer, just like what you can find in the Philippines.”
At 12:30 p.m. and again at 5 p.m., the fiesta will have its signature parade of higantes, papier-mâché puppets; dancers; and performers. Following will be more cultural performances like tinikling, bamboo dance; a traditional fashion show; live music; and live presentations representing the different regions of the Philippines. At the end of the day will be a dance party, also known as a diskoral.
Guests can also look forward to a balut-eating contest, photo booth with props, cultural displays, arts and crafts, raffles, games, kids’ corner, and karaoke. “Filipinos are known for karaoke,” Alinsub adds. “Everyone will be invited to share their talent.”
For Alinsub, the Philippine Fiesta is more than an event. “It’s really like a homecoming,” he says. “It’s celebration of identity and is actually a rare chance for multiple generations, from our elders to adults to youth, to come together and share our heritage proudly with others and to connect with other cultures. And it’s a way of saying that we’re here, we belong, and we’re proud to be part of Memphis.
“And this time, we made it bigger because we saw that it was well-received by the community, so it will be something to look forward to.”
Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance at tinyurl.com/yu7ap3k8.
2nd Annual Philippine Fiesta, The Coronet, 5770 Shelby Oaks Drive, Saturday, June 7, 11 a.m.-8 p.m., $10.