Hey fellow creators, as a proud Filipino, I'm excited to share the buzz about FAHM Mania 2023—an event celebrating Filipino American Heritage Month that occurred on 10/14/2023.
This was my first time discovering this event, and I had a blast! Now, I'm eager to help spread the word for the 2024 edition, making sure more people can join in on this annual celebration.
Upon entering, Adobers organized classic games reminiscent of "Perya" the type you'd find at a Filipino "Fiesta" or celebration. It brought back fond memories of my childhood, where yearly Fiesta celebrations in my hometown always featured a lively Perya.
I never missed a Perya growing up. I'd bug my parents for money to play my favorite game—the Color Matching Game. Betting on a color, pulling the string, and hoping for a match was pure excitement.
My mom got in on the fun too, particularly enjoying the Coin Toss. Toss the coin, land it on a square, and win the corresponding prize—that simple yet thrilling game.
Let's talk about the food. Teofilo served up a special Filipino coffee—I couldn't resist trying their Ube Latte for $6, and it was absolutely delicious.
The Embotidos offered frozen delights, and although I haven't tried the pork embotido yet, it looks promising.
Now, let me rave about the host, Miss Ramonne—such an energetic and entertaining presence. The technical issues with the mic at the start didn't faze her; she kept us laughing and the show rolling. Plus, she has a powerhouse voice—check out her Instagram for a taste.
Here's my mom standing beside Miss Ramonne.
I was captivated by the Bayani Collection's stunning jewelry range. Each piece was a work of art.
Special guest Isabella Loyola, a phenomenal singer, wowed the crowd with her incredible voice. Make sure to check her out on Facebook.
And then, there was the dynamic sibling duo, Raynn and Ez Mil, performing their hit song "Storm." Their talent left me speechless. Before the performance, Raynn treated us to a couple of songs too.
Raffles were, of course, part of the event. My mom lucked out, winning a set of tumblers and beaming with happiness.
The folk dances performed by young kids in traditional Filipino outfits—Barong Tagalog and saya—were a joy to watch. Kudos to all the performers for their amazing skills!
As the night concluded, I couldn't help but reflect on the beauty of FAHM Mania 2023. It wasn't just a celebration; it was a testament to the resilience, creativity, and unity of the Filipino community. The memories created in those vibrant hours will linger, reminding us all of the richness of our heritage and the importance of coming together to celebrate the tapestry of our shared identity.
If you missed out this year, make a note for next October—it's an experience that shouldn't be missed. FAHM Mania 2023 was more than an event; it was a journey through time, culture, and community, leaving all attendees with a deeper appreciation for the vibrant Filipino spirit.