Vallejo, California [June 27, 2021] Vallejo’s Pista Sa Nayon returned with a vibrant celebration of Filipino heritage, culture, and traditions, marking Philippines Independence Day with a mix of virtual and in-person festivities. Featuring Vallejo’s own OneVo1ce, renowned DJ Shortkut, and hosted by Golden State Warriors’ Hype-Man Franco Finn, the event brought together the community through music, dance, and cultural pride while also fostering education about Filipino-American history and traditions.
Despite ongoing challenges, the festival planning committee ensured the celebration remained accessible to all, offering both an in-person pop-up event and an online virtual showcase. The in-person event featured live entertainment, local food vendors, a bustling marketplace, and a special watch party for the virtual program, which remains available on YouTube.
Special Online Performances Included:
- OneVo1ce – Celebrated R&B group
- DJ Shortkut – OPM Funk & Soul TWITCH Mix
- Parangal Dance Company – Traditional Filipino dance
- Island Warriors Martial Arts – Showcasing Filipino martial arts
On-Site Entertainment Featured:
- DJ KingJames
- Solano Middle School Marching Band
- Zumba Flash Mob
- DJ Rue Hefner
- Sinulog Dance Group
- DJ Kaleo Wilson
- Banyuhay Group
- Kultura International Dance Ensemble
Promoting Filipino Cultural Education
Beyond entertainment, Pista Sa Nayon serves as a platform for cultural education, ensuring younger generations and the wider community continue to learn about Filipino traditions, history, and values. Through traditional dance performances, martial arts demonstrations, and music reflecting the Filipino-American experience, the event encourages deeper understanding and appreciation of Filipino heritage.
The festival also reinforces continuing education by supporting programs that teach Filipino cultural arts, language, and history, bridging the gap between generations. By engaging youth in performances and community activities, Pista Sa Nayon inspires pride in Filipino roots and ensures these traditions are passed down for years to come.
Community and Sponsorship Support
The event was made possible through the generous support of Marin Clean Energy (MCE), GMA Pinoy TV, Kaiser Permanente, and the Vallejo Commission on Culture and the Arts. Their contributions help sustain cultural events like this, keeping Filipino traditions alive while fostering an inclusive, multicultural environment.
With a mix of modern and traditional performances, Pista Sa Nayon continues to unite generations, celebrate Filipino heritage, and serve as an educational and cultural bridge for the Filipino-American community.