The Hilo Barrio Fiesta will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, October 25, at the Campus Center Plaza of the University of Hawaii at Hilo (UH Hilo). This free community event, organized by the Hawaii Association for Filipino Educators (HAFE) in partnership with the Samahang Club of Hawaii Community College, the Bayanihan Club, and the Filipino Studies Certificate Program of UH Hilo, aims to celebrate and promote Filipino culture as part of Filipino American History Month.
In recognition of the contributions of Filipinos to American history, the Hilo Barrio Fiesta promises an engaging lineup of activities. Attendees can enjoy Filipino food from various food trucks, live music, cultural performances, and family-friendly games. The event will also feature an art exhibit, karaoke, and a balut eating contest, all designed to highlight the rich history of Filipinos in Hawaii.
October was officially designated as Filipino American History Month by Congress in 2009, commemorating the first recorded presence of Filipinos in the continental United States on October 18, 1587. This month serves as a time to reflect on the significant impact that Filipinos have made on American society, especially in Hawaii, where they constitute the second-largest ethnic group. They are also recognized as the last immigrant group brought to the islands as plantation laborers, commonly referred to as sakadas.
Jofaira Manarpiis, president of the Samahang Club of Hawaii Community College, emphasized the importance of preserving Filipino heritage. “The Filipino people have made significant contributions to the abundant tapestry of Hawaii’s history, a legacy we must not only honor but actively keep alive through the vibrant transmission of our culture to future generations, creating in them a profound pride in their heritage,” she stated.
The Hilo Barrio Fiesta invites all community members to join in this meaningful celebration, which not only honors Filipino history but also fosters a sense of unity among diverse cultures. The event offers a unique opportunity for attendees to engage with Filipino traditions and to learn more about the history and contributions of Filipinos in Hawaii.
As the event approaches, organizers are preparing for a day filled with culture, community, and celebration.
