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The Philippine Festival Council of Alberta (PFCA) is the project proponent of Fiesta Filipino. It is a duly licensed civil society group formed to enhance the participation and well-being of Filipino Albertans and accelerate their involvement and leadership in the civic life of Alberta.
Fiesta Filipino is a celebration of multiculturalism and diversity in Alberta. Our organization provides Albertans with the opportunity to experience Filipino-Canadian culture and heritage through year-round programs of music, arts, food, and performances. We are 100% volunteer-driven, not for-profit, and a community-based organization.
As the fastest growing community, our vision is to create a Canada that embraces cultural diversity and multiculturalism. We envision a Filipino-Canadian community that fully lives the value of Bayanihan (a spirit of civic unity and cooperation among Filipinos), that supports its members and that fully participates in the shaping of this country’s future.
The Philippine Festival Council of Alberta (PFCA) was founded in late 2014, bringing together individuals with a diverse set of unique expertise and skills, plus a rich history of experiences with deep commitment to community action. It is a dynamic group that includes seniors, youth, and first and second generation Filipino-Canadians who have a common goal – to celebrate and highlight the Filipino community’s diversity, vitality, and unique contributions in shaping Calgary’s, Alberta’s, and Canada’s past, present, and future.
In the summer of 2015, Calgary witnessed the birth of a small yet vibrant celebration known as Fiesta Filipino. What began as a modest two-day festival quickly captured the hearts of those who attended. Organized by a passionate group of volunteers, this inaugural event aimed to bring the warmth, spirit, and rich cultural heritage of the Philippines to the local community.
That first year, the festival was small but mighty. Traditional dances, colorful costumes, and the mouth-watering aroma of Filipino cuisine filled the air. Though it was just a fraction of what it would one day become, the festival laid the foundation for something much greater. The warmth and hospitality of the Filipino community shone brightly, drawing in not only Filipinos but also people from various cultural backgrounds, all eager to experience the unique flavors and vibrant energy of the Philippines.
As the years passed, Fiesta Filipino grew, each edition more ambitious than the last. More volunteers joined the cause, bringing fresh ideas and boundless energy. Word spread, and soon, it was not just a celebration for the Filipino community but a highlight in Calgary’s multicultural calendar. The festival expanded, both in size and significance, extending its run and attracting larger crowds each year.
By 2024, Fiesta Filipino had transformed into “F2X: The Legacy,” a grand three-day event held at the iconic Calgary Olympic Plaza. The festival, now marking the beginning of its 10th anniversary, had become one of the largest multicultural and Filipino cultural celebrations in Canada. It drew attendees from all over Alberta and beyond, eager to immerse themselves in the vibrant showcase of Filipino culture, from traditional dances and music to contemporary performances and art.
What started as a small gathering in 2015 has now blossomed into a powerful symbol of cultural pride, unity, and the shared joy of celebration, touching lives and bringing people together, year after year.
Fiesta Filipino has become a vibrant celebration of Filipino culture, bringing the rich traditions, history, and artistry of the Philippines to the forefront in Alberta. Through music, dance, food, and art, the festival fosters a deep appreciation and understanding of Filipino heritage, not only within the Filipino community but also among the diverse cultural groups that make up Canada’s multicultural landscape.
The festival has grown into a significant economic driver, attracting thousands of attendees and generating revenue for local businesses. From food vendors and artisans to local shops and service providers, Fiesta Filipino boosts the local economy, providing opportunities for small businesses to thrive. Additionally, the festival’s success has attracted sponsors, helping to fund and expand its reach and impact each year.
Fiesta Filipino serves as a beacon of unity, bringing together people from various cultural backgrounds to celebrate and connect. It strengthens community ties by fostering inclusivity and providing a space where everyone can come together to share in the joy of celebration. The festival also promotes volunteerism, with members of the community working together to create an event that reflects the values of cooperation, respect, and mutual support.
Fiesta Filipino has been a crucial platform for local artists, providing them with opportunities to showcase their talents to a broader audience. One of the festival’s most recent initiatives, Flipside Theatre Collective, exemplifies this commitment. Launched to nurture and promote Filipino-Canadian artists, this theatre collective focuses on storytelling through performance art, giving voice to unique Filipino-Canadian experiences. Flipside Theatre Collective has become a dynamic space where local artists can explore and express their creativity, contributing to the vibrant cultural tapestry of the festival and beyond.
Fiesta Filipino is deeply committed to empowering the next generation, and a cornerstone of this effort is the Youth Empowerment Program (YEP). This initiative is designed to engage young people in meaningful ways, offering them leadership roles, mentorship opportunities, and the chance to take an active part in the festival’s planning and execution. Through YEP, participants develop essential skills in leadership, teamwork, and cultural awareness, all while strengthening their connection to their Filipino heritage. By involving youth in every aspect of the festival, Fiesta Filipino helps to build confidence, creativity, and a strong sense of identity, preparing them to be the community leaders of tomorrow.
Fiesta Filipino is committed to inclusivity and celebrating diversity in all its forms. The festival provides a welcoming space for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, ensuring that all individuals feel seen, respected, and valued. Through conscious efforts to foster an inclusive environment, the festival highlights the importance of acceptance and equality, reflecting the diverse and vibrant nature of the Filipino community and the broader society.
Fiesta Filipino is a celebration of multiculturalism and diversity in Alberta. Our organization provides Albertans with the opportunity to experience Filipino-Canadian culture and heritage through year-round programs of music, arts, food, and performances. We are 100% volunteer-driven, not for-profit, and a community-based organization.
