This year the Barrio Fiesta took place in Haslewood Park, just near Leeds City Centre. In Leeds, it has taken place since 2004—coincidentally, the same year my family immigrated to the UK. Barrio fiestas occur all around the UK, in places with large Filipino communities. In fact, the fiestas in Birmingham and London are so big that they even attract celebrities from the Philippines.
Leeds does not usually have celebrities but there is always massive turnout, and this year was no exception. There are all sorts of things that go on during the day. In the morning, there is always a mass to welcome in the festivities and after the mass is something called the Santacruzan, which is what I was involved in. It varies slightly different depending on the region of the country. At the fiesta, it consists of a procession of young girls and women, termed 'princesses' and 'queens', and their escorts. It is best likened to the May Queen procession in the UK.
My job was to coordinate both groups, and to ensure that the princesses (mostly young children) would keep with their partner and not walk too fast or too slow in the procession—or to be too distracted! After that, what takes place is a lively mix of musical performances, as Filipinos adore singing and dancing, alongside many Filipino food stalls to try.
I chose to volunteer for the fiesta as it is such an important event for the Filipino community in Leeds and it is so evident from the turnout. There were so many people that we were waiting an hour in a queue for food! It is such a valuable way for Filipinos who have been abroad to feel at home, even just for a day, to share and promote our culture and to enjoy coming together. I saw old friends there. I also unexpectedly met my childhood neighbour from when I was a toddler! It turns out she had recently moved to Hull last year from the Philippines, and it was a really worthwhile event for her to take comfort in.
“It is such a valuable way for Filipinos who have been abroad to feel at home, even just for a day, to share and promote our culture and to enjoy coming together.”