Fiesta In America to mark 26th year in NJ’s American Dream Mall

Fiesta In America, “the grandest annual indoor Filipino event on the U.S. East Coast” will mark its 26^th year, at America’s second-largest mall on Saturday, August 19, at Court A of the American Dream Mall in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

“Our second year at American Dream is tailored for a live audience eager to experience the vibrant showcase of Filipino culture, high-quality native products, Philippine tourist attractions, delectable Filipino cuisine, and, of course, performances by renowned Filipino superstars and emerging artists,” Fiesta In America’s founder, President and CEO Nanding Mendez stated in a release.

The management of American Dream Mall anticipates an audience of over 10,000 Filipinos coming from New Jersey, New York, and neighboring states, from Connecticut to Virginia.

An additional 50,000 visitors from diverse backgrounds are expected to explore American Dream’s theme parks, retail outlets, and dining establishments during the summer weekends. Both entries to the mall and Fiesta In America are free of charge.

For the thousands of non-Filipino attendees, Fiesta In America’s full-day musical program serves as a virtual gateway to experience the Philippines’ multicultural heritage in music.

Ogie Afable, the show’s producer, hinted at an even more diverse musical lineup than anticipated at traditional Filipino events.

Philippine Tourism exhibitors from at last year’s Fiesta In America. CONTRIBUTED

“While the festival predominantly caters to a Filipino audience,” stated Afable, “we will also showcase Hispanic folk dance troupes and exhilarating Latino dance bands, paying homage to the Philippines’ long-standing ties with Spanish culture.”

Preceding Fiesta In America, the annual community tribute gala known as the People’s Ball is set for on Sunday, August 13, at 12 noon at Marriott Newark International Airport, New Jersey. For over 13 years, the People’s Ball has served as a gathering place for the influential figures of the Filipino-American community in the New York-New Jersey area.

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The gala will feature a lavish luncheon, captivating live entertainment, and enchanting ballroom dancing. Dr. Laura Garcia, the People’s Ball Honorary Chairperson for 2023, emphasized that the festivities will be “highlighted by the presentation of this year’s Empowerment Awards, recognizing Filipino achievers in various fields such as business, industry, professional endeavors, governance, public service, culture, and the humanities.”

To sponsor, exhibit, advertise, or attend Fiesta In America and the People’s Ball, please call 212-682-6610; email [email protected] or visit www.fiestainamerica.com.