First Filipino-American Festival to be held in Charleston on Saturday

A member of the Filipino-American Association of West Virginia holds the flag of the Philippines outside the West Virginia capitol.Photo byFilipino-American Association of West Virginia

CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- In 2019, the U.S. Congress declared October Filipino Heritage month.

Now, West Virginia’s Filipino-American community will have their own celebration to mark the occasion.

On Saturday, Oct. 19, the Kanawha Valley will hold the state’s first-ever Filipino-American Festival on the Capitol Complex in Charleston. The event, which runs from 1-6 p.m., is sponsored by the Herbert Henderson Office of Minority Affairs (HHOMA) and the Filipino American Association of West Virginia.

“In celebration of Filipino American History Month, HHOMA is proud to co-host the first-ever Filipino American Festival in West Virginia,” HHOMA Director Jill Upson said in a release announcing the event.

Saturday’s festival will feature dance performances, authentic Filipino cuisine, karaoke, traditional games and more, organizers said. Vendors will also be on hand to sell a variety of foods and other goods. Participating vendors include:

• BG’z LA Street Taco
• A Taste of the Philippines (Mona’s Eggrolls)
• Coal Miners Diners Additional
• Hickory House
• A Family Affairs LLP
• Crunchy Fruit Queen
• Nell’s Thrifty Boutique
• Knochet Sherlock
• Prichard’s Produce
• Star Dreamers Production
• Will Express Cargo LLC
• Thelma Lansang, Realtor

A poster for Saturday's Filipino-American Festival at the Capitol Complex in Charleston.Photo byFilipino-American Association of West Virginia

Earlier this month, West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice offered his own proclamation declaring October as Filipino-American History Month.

“Filipino American History Month is a significant time to study the advancement of Filipino Americans along with a time of celebration, remembrance and reflection for all citizens to learn and appreciate their contributions to the Great State of West Virginia and our nation,” the proclamation reads.

Representatives with the Filipino American Association of West Virginia said they were “incredibly honored” with the proclamation.

“This is a significant milestone for our community as we celebrate our heritage and contributions,” organization representatives said.

Officials said that Saturday’s festival will offer one way for citizens to honor the contributions of Filipino-Americans.

“Bring your entire family to witness history being made as we celebrate our culture, heritage, and community,” Upson said.

Michael Ramsburg is a Kanawha County communities reporter. He can be reached at ramsburgreports@gmail.com or by calling 304-370-3067.