October 26, 2024: FilFiesta559 had an AMAZING event during the last Saturday of Filipino American History Month. It was Fresno’s Inaugural Barrio Fiesta/Festival held at Fresno City College. The event was lead by Christine Rose and Devon Antonio who have ties to Delano.
Devon Antonio (pictured below center) is a UC Merced PhD student in Ethnic Studies and sits on the board for Fresno’s FilFiesta559. He stopped by the FANHS-Delano booth to chat with VP, Melody Saberon Ybarra, and member, Mark “Hassid” Feton.
The event was more than just a festival; it was a celebration of culture – who we are, where we are going and bridging generational gaps. It was warming to see all ages connect whether by food, history or entertainment.
There were cultural dances, performances by The Filharmonic [www.instagram.com/thefilharmonic] and Delano’s own Koumba Carino Diallo [www.instagram.com/koumbamusic] pictured below with Melody.
Filipino Food was delicious as always and an invitation to start a conversation with a stranger and engage. Shopping was plentiful as well with tons of Filipino-inspired crafts such as earrings by BrwnGrlz. There were workshops as well to make your own halo-halo and an exhibit to see the history of Filipino Nurses and Filipino Arts.
And of course, the Filipino-American National Historical Society – Delano Chapter was present to share insight on Filipino-American History and contributions to the Central Valley.
We look forward to more events celebrating culture, history and our future. Mabuhay!
Click here for more photos courtesy of Melody Saberon Ybarra.
Click here for more photos courtesy of Mark “Hassid” Felton.