Festivals Unite Cultures: Filipino and Pacific Islander Festival Thrives in San Antonio
In San Antonio, the vibrant spirit of Filipino and Pacific Islander cultures filled the air this past weekend as thousands flocked to the third annual Filipino and Pacific Islander Festival. This event has become a heartwarming gathering for communities, showcasing the rich heritage and traditions of these cultures.
A Growing Attendance
Event organizers expressed excitement about the festival’s growth. From a modest group of hundreds in its inaugural year, the festival has expanded tremendously, with thousands now participating. “We want to share our culture with everyone,” remarked Angelica Guzman, one of the event organizers. Khai Sy, another festival leader, agreed, noting the evolution of the festival as a beautiful gathering of cultures.
A Visitor’s Perspective
One of the attendees, Alma Manabat Parker, visiting from Ketchikan, Alaska, shared her insights. In her hometown, 10% of residents identify as Filipino or Pacific Islander, highlighting the cultural significance. Parker stated, “It was a great way to just check out what it’s like to have festivals all over the country,” further emphasizing how these events can unite communities.
A Cultural Feast
This year’s festival was not just about gathering; it was a delightful feast of flavors and sounds. Attendees enjoyed popular food from the region, while local vendors showcased crafts and merchandise. The atmosphere buzzed with traditional Filipino music performed by various bands and dancers, enhancing the cultural experience.
Preserving Cultural Traditions
For participants like Manabat Parker, the festival is crucial to keeping traditions alive. She expressed her hopes for future generations to learn about their roots, saying, “All those little traditions, they slowly will disappear if we’re not always reminded and celebrating them.” Such sentiments resonate deeply as attendees connect with their heritage through food and cultural practices.
Looking Ahead
As the festival wrapped up, organizers were already looking forward to next year’s celebrations. They confirmed plans to host the festival again during the 2025 Labor Day Weekend, ensuring that the vibrant legacy of Filipino and Pacific Islander cultures continues to thrive in San Antonio.
