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Vienna, July 19, 2025 — In what has become Austria’s largest outdoor Filipino cultural gathering, the Filipino community in Vienna came together today to celebrate the much‑anticipated Barrio Fiesta. Organized by the Council of Filipino Associations in Austria (CFAA), led by Chair Elmer Blanco, and supported by the Philippine Embassy, the one-day event drew thousands of attendees from across Austria and neighboring countries.
The festivities commenced with a solemn and uplifting Holy Mass, celebrated by Fr. Ely Dalanon, chaplain of the Filipino Community in Vienna, joined by four Filipino concelebrant priests. In his sermon, Fr. Dalanon emphasized that fiestas are an opportunity to give thanks for life’s blessings, to nurture unity, and to foster community among Filipinos living abroad. His words set a tone of gratitude and solidarity for what lay ahead.
Ambassador Evangelina Lourdes Arroyo‑Bernas delivered the keynote message, echoing those themes. She expressed profound gratitude to the Filipino diaspora for their cultural, social, and economic contributions to Austrian society—efforts that have won the respect and appreciation of their Austrian neighbors. More than welcoming guests from across Austria, she also acknowledged attendees who traveled from nearby countries, thanking them for making the journey.
Looking ahead, Ambassador Arroyo‑Bernas extended an invitation for collaboration on next year’s celebrations. The 2026 Barrio Fiesta will mark a historic milestone: the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Austria. Planning is already underway for special commemorations, cultural showcases, and further outreach efforts.
Joining the celebration was District Council Representative of Liesing, Vienna’s 23rd District, Mr. Harald Gruber. He warmly welcomed the Filipino community to the district and thanked the event organizers for bringing the richness of Filipino culture to Vienna. His greeting resonated with the crowd when he expressed it in Tagalog: “Maligayang Pagdating!”
Elmer Blanco, marking CFAA’s 25th year of championing Philippine civic life in Austria, reflected on the importance of unity. “Our strength,” he said, “lies in cooperation and togetherness. Through events like this, we showcase our vibrant culture, support our business community, and pass on our heritage to the next generation.”
To honor these contributions, CFAA presented small tokens of appreciation to former leaders and volunteers who have shaped Filipino cultural life in Austria since CFAA’s founding in 1995. Their dedication has been vital in organizing Filipino Independence Day celebrations, Barrio Fiestas, and other cultural initiatives over the past quarter-century.
Following the formal program, the atmosphere shifted to one of exuberant joy and celebration. Over 80 colorful booths lined the festival grounds—the most significant number to date—offering authentic Filipino cuisine, artisanal crafts, and Pinoy specialties. Vendors ranged from small, home-based entrepreneurs to established businesses; attendees sampled beloved favorites like pancit, lechon, halo-halo, and lumpia while browsing traditional handicrafts and culturally themed merchandise.
Onstage, cultural performances and traditional dances brought the crowd to their feet. Song and dance groups from various Austrian provinces and neighboring countries performed with energy and flair, proudly showcasing the diversity of Filipino songlines and movements. The sense of joy was contagious, with both Filipinos and many intrigued Austrians dancing, clapping, and cheering in appreciation.
“For many of us, this isn’t just a festival—it’s a reminder of home,” said Maria Cruz, a first‑generation Filipino‑Austrian, as her children joined her at a dance performance. “Seeing so many of us here, singing our songs, sharing our food—it makes you feel we belong, even thousands of miles away.”
By the evening, Barrio Fiesta had firmly established itself as a cultural beacon in Vienna—a celebration of heritage, togetherness, and gratitude. The CFAA’s ability to mobilize an expansive network of community groups, artisans, performers, and volunteers underscores the enduring vibrancy of the Filipino community in Austria.
As the sun set and lanterns twinkled overhead, the shared spirit of optimism and unity was clear. With eyes already turning to next year’s gala—where the community will mark 80 years of diplomatic friendship with Austria—Barrio Fiesta 2025 will be remembered as a shining example of cultural pride, community engagement, and transnational solidarity.
- Hector Pascua
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