What began as a small cultural celebration outside the town library has grown into one of Rocky Mountain House’s most anticipated summer events.

Now in its fifth year, the Filipino Food & Music Festival is moving to a new, larger venue to accommodate the increasing number of attendees.

Previously held at the Pioneer Centre, the free event will take place this year at the Lou Soppit Community Centre on Saturday, Aug. 23 from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

“We’ve really outgrown the space,” said Fely MacKay, one of the organizers and treasurer of the Rocky Mountain House Filipino-Canadian Community Association. “Every year, more people come. Last year we filled the Pioneer Centre, so this year we needed something bigger.”

The festival is a celebration of Filipino culture and hospitality, offering traditional Filipino dishes and live entertainment — all free of charge.

“This is our way of giving back to the community,” said MacKay. “The Town of Rocky has been very supportive, and we just want to show our thanks and share who we are.”

Turnout at Food & Music Festival in Rocky Mountain House. (Photo by Rocky Mountain House Filipino-Canadian Community Association)

Special performances this year include a drum and percussion group from Calgary, known as the Filipino Percussion Ensemble, along with several local Filipino talents.

The event has always been open to everyone, with organizers saying that it’s as much about community as it is about culture.

“[For Filipinos], this is our second home,” said MacKay. “This festival is one way to show that Filipinos are warm, generous, and always ready to share.”

While everything is free, the association welcomes donations to help cover future events and programming.

(Rocky Mountain House Filipino-Canadian Community Association)