Annual literary festival lights up Long Beach, California

Photo from Long Beach Public Library/Facebook

Long Beach, California, is set to celebrate Filipino-American heritage with the second annual Liwanag Literary Festival on Oct. 21 at the Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library. 

The event, in partnership with Bel Canto Books, is a free community gathering highlighting Filipino culture and stories. The word “liwanag” translates to “light” in Filipino, reflecting its aim to illuminate the rich tapestry of Filipino-American experiences.

The festival features a diverse lineup of Filipino-American authors, including Michelle Sterling, Alex Brown, and Jasmin Iolani Hakes. Attendees can enjoy readings, engaging panel discussions, and book signings.

The Liwanag Literary Festival is not just about literature though, it’s also a community affair. Alongside literary events, there will be children’s crafts and a performance by Rocksteady Rondalla, known for traditional Philippine music.

Cathy De Leon, director of library services, expressed her enthusiasm. “With over 20,000 people of Filipino and Filipino-American descent in Long Beach, it is a privilege to host the second Liwanag Literary Festival at the Michelle Obama Library.”

The festival’s partnership with Bel Canto Books underlines its mission to amplify Filipino voices and foster understanding among diverse communities. It’s an opportunity to appreciate the contributions of Long Beach’s Filipino-American community to the city’s rich history.