San Diego, California — The Filipino American community in San Diego, alongside the Asian Pacific Islander Initiative (API Initiative), is preparing for the 4th annual Filipino American Friendship Festival on Saturday, July 13. The event will be held at NTC Liberty Station Park.
The festival commemorates the Philippines gaining independence from the United States on July 4, 1946. It highlights the enduring bond between the two nations and the rich heritage of the Fil-Am community.
This free, family-friendly event will feature a variety of cultural activities, including art, food, and live entertainment. Performers such as Knowa Lazarus and Alterwave San Diego will take the stage.
Additionally, the festival will showcase Filipino small businesses, authors, Karaoke Korner, and Plumeria 101, alongside workshops for children and a volleyball tournament.
“Our festival celebrates the rich heritage of the Filipino American community through music, dance, and delicious cuisine. Get ready for a day of traditional performances, arts and crafts vendors, and games for the whole family,” the organizers stated on Facebook.
The API Initiative, which promotes and supports the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities, is hosting the festival. The organization focuses on arts and culture, civic engagement, leadership development, education, and research.
The inaugural Filipino American Friendship Festival was held in 2021. Last year, the event celebrated the naming of the USS Telesforo Trinidad, honoring the Filipino American sailor who saved two shipmates during an explosion on the USS San Diego in 1915.
