Press Release 2024

Join us on September 8 in Mount Pleasant for a day of food, music, and community.

Vancouver, August 19, 2024 – Kamayan Fest is back for its second year, promising an even more vibrant celebration of Filipino culture, food, and community. On September 8, 2024, from 11am-6pm, City Centre Artist Lodge and the newly added 6th Ave street closure will come alive with the flavours, sounds, and spirit of the Philippines at Kamayan Fest.

The festival shines a spotlight on Filipino cuisine, inviting attendees to enjoy the culinary creations of talented local chefs, including the renowned Chef Mark Singson. The term “kamayan” refers to the age-old Filipino practice of eating with bare hands, symbolizing unity and connection. Kamayan Fest honours this tradition with a diverse array of food vendors serving up both classic dishes and innovative creations that pay homage to Filipino gastronomy. From savoury adobo to sweet halo-halo, the festival promises a feast that will delight both seasoned food lovers and curious newcomers.

But Kamayan Fest is about more than just food. This year, we’re thrilled to introduce live performances featuring local Filipinx artists, adding a new dimension to the festival. The lineup features the dynamic hip-hop artist Kimmortal and the legendary DJ Niña Mendoza, along with other musicians, dancers, and DJs, reflecting our commitment to amplifying diverse voices and celebrating the multi-layered identity of the Filipinx community.

“Kamayan Fest is about celebrating the beautiful nuances of Filipino culture in all its forms,” says LJ Cajigas, co-founder of the festival. “From the food to the performances, we’re creating an experience that invites everyone to connect with our heritage and with each other.”

In addition to the cultural and culinary experiences, Kamayan Fest continues its commitment to supporting local small businesses and entrepreneurs. By offering free vendor spaces, the festival provides a platform for Filipinx vendors to thrive and engage with the community. This initiative not only strengthens the local economy but also aligns with the festival’s mission to promote inclusivity and financial resilience.

Kamayan Fest is made possible through the collaboration of dedicated community partners, sponsors, and local organizations including the City of Vancouver, TF Events, Lavish Liquid, Dragonboat BC and A&B Partytime Rentals, who share our vision of a more inclusive and connected Vancouver. Their support ensures that the festival remains a free public event that welcomes everyone.

We invite the community to join us for a day of delicious food, lively performances, and shared celebration at Kamayan Fest. Come experience the warmth of Filipino hospitality and the beauty of our cultural heritage in the heart of Vancouver.