VALLEJO, CA [June 22, 2025] – The Philippine Cultural Committee (PCC) recently concluded their milestone 39th Annual Pista sa Nayon Festival with a heartfelt Thanksgiving Mass at St. Basil Church in Vallejo, expressing gratitude for another successful celebration of Filipino heritage and community spirit.
The special Mass brought together festival organizers, volunteers, and community members to reflect on the festival’s achievements and give thanks for the continued support that has made this cultural celebration a cornerstone event for nearly four decades.
Father Dante Lumabas of St. Basil Church presided over the ceremony, joined by dedicated PCC volunteers who worked tirelessly throughout the year to organize and execute the festival. The gathering served as both a moment of thanksgiving and an opportunity to recognize the countless hours of volunteer service that make the annual event possible.
The Pista sa Nayon Festival, which translates to “Town Festival,” has been a beloved tradition in the Bay Area Filipino community since its inception, showcasing authentic Filipino culture through traditional music, dance, cuisine, and crafts. This year’s 39th iteration continued the festival’s mission of preserving and sharing Filipino heritage while fostering community connections across generations.
“The success of our festival year after year is a testament to the dedication of our volunteers and the strong support of our community,” said Jen Mojica, Festival Director. “This Thanksgiving Mass allows us to pause and appreciate not just what we’ve accomplished, but the spirit of bayanihan – community cooperation – that makes it all possible.”
The annual festival has grown significantly since its humble beginnings, now attracting visitors from across Northern California who come to experience the rich tapestry of Filipino culture. From traditional folk dances and live musical performances to authentic regional cuisines and handcrafted goods, the festival serves as a vibrant bridge between Filipino heritage and American community life.
St. Basil Church has been a longstanding partner in supporting the Filipino community’s cultural and spiritual needs in Vallejo. The church’s involvement in hosting the Thanksgiving Mass reflects the deep connections between faith and cultural celebration that characterize many Filipino community traditions.
The Philippine Cultural Committee continues to plan for future festivals while building on the success of this year’s celebration. Community members interested in volunteering for next year’s 40th anniversary festival or learning more about PCC activities are encouraged to visit www.VallejoPistaSaNayon.com.
For more information about St. Basil Church and its community programs, visit www.stbasilvallejo.org.
Photo caption: Father Dante Lumabas of St. Basil Church (center) is pictured with Philippine Cultural Committee volunteers during the Thanksgiving Mass celebrating the successful 39th Annual Pista sa Nayon Festival. (Courtesy of Nestor Aliga)
About the Philippine Cultural Committee: The Philippine Cultural Committee is a volunteer-based organization dedicated to preserving and promoting Filipino culture in the Bay Area through educational programs, cultural events, and community outreach initiatives.