Another success by our community: Filipino Weekend Market Draws Thousands — Fall Edition “Pasko Na!” Proposed to Launch Filipino Christmas Season

By Cobb Carbonel

The Filipino Weekend Market, held on April 12–13, 2025 at Centennial Square in downtown Victoria, was a vibrant celebration of culture, cuisine, and community. Spearheaded by the Bayanihan Cultural and Housing Society and supported by local affiliate organizations, the two-day event attracted an estimated 6,000 to 9,000 attendees and featured over 40 vendors, live performances, and interactive family-friendly activities.

The market was made possible through the Ideas Fund under the City of Victoria’s OurDTWN initiative, which supports creative and inclusive activations that energize downtown spaces. From traditional Filipino games like Sungka and Piko to Zumba, open mic karaoke, chalk art, and a 360° photobooth, the event created a festive and welcoming environment for people of all ages and backgrounds.

A major highlight was the culinary experience, with food vendors serving authentic Filipino dishes and innovative fusion offerings. The collaboration with the Japanese community, who held their Spring Market alongside the event, added to the multicultural richness of the weekend.

The response was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees giving the event an average satisfaction rating of 4.83 out of 5. “It felt like a true Pinoy party,” shared one guest. “The food, the music, the vibe—it was incredible!” Others expressed their hope for more frequent editions, citing the strong sense of community and the event’s seamless organization.

The City of Victoria was pleased with the outcome and encouraged organizers to submit a proposal for a Fall edition. In response, the Bayanihan Cultural and Housing Society has proposed:

Pasko Na! Filipino Weekend Market – Fall/Winter Edition”

 A seasonal celebration to mark the beginning of the Filipino Christmas season, which starts as early as September 1 and continues through the Feast of the Three Kings in January.

The proposed event is currently under review by the City of Victoria. If approved, it will once again transform downtown into a hub of Filipino joy, tradition, and hospitality.

“This project is rooted in community, and we’re excited about the possibility of bringing it back in a way that highlights the spirit of Filipino Christmas,” said Melvin “Cobb” Carbonel, Project Manager. “We thank the City of Victoria and the community for their continued support.”

Stay tuned for updates on the status of the proposal, vendor sign-ups, and ways to take part in what promises to be another unforgettable celebration.

Photo by Cobb Carbonel