The South EastMan Filipino Association (SEMFA) is excited to host a Costume Carnival for the first time in 10 years.
President Kristine Bristol says the event is inspired by SEMFA’s commitment to bring the community together.
“We wanted to create a fun and engaging event for families and individuals of all ages. Our carnival theme brings a vibrant, festive atmosphere, where everyone can express their creativity and enjoy the cultural diversity of southeast Manitoba.”
She encourages creative costumes but says it’s optional and explains what attendees can expect.
“If you’re not able to wear costumes, but you want to see the performers, the band, and if you want to dance, if you want to socialize, and also play games with kids, adults, and teens that will also be there. We also have a 50/50 draw fundraiser that will go towards our Christmas party and also for other events coming up for the next year.”
The Costume Carnival is on Saturday, October 26 at the Mitchell Community Centre. Doors open at 4 pm and tickets are $5.00 for six and up, and free for five and under.
“We are inviting everybody to come together, the Filipinos and the non-Filipino members to the event. You can bring your friends and your family together and socialize.”
Public Relations Officer for SEMFA, Christine Pineda adds that they are encouraging everyone to come together in unity.
“We are welcoming other cultures as well. We want to learn and experience other cultures in a way that we socialize and just have fun. We want to celebrate every culture and also our Filipino culture.”
She explains that this event is an excellent opportunity for individuals of Filipino descent to celebrate their culture through music and food, while also allowing them to meet like-minded people.
Additionally, it provides a chance to learn about a new culture, as Halloween is not traditionally celebrated in the Philippines.
Bristol says that her term will conclude at the end of 2025, and during that period, she aims to keep organizing events that unite the Filipino community.
“Events like this make them not feel homesick and socialize with everybody here in Manitoba and Steinbach. The newcomers, the people that have been here for 18 years, they can talk to each other and make the newcomers welcome.”
She continues, “It is an event for everybody in the Southeast region. It’s actually open for the people in Morris, Vita, and also those in Eastern Regions. So, putting them together in one event, that is my greatest achievement. That is my goal, to bring everybody to be united.”
Join SEMFA on Saturday for food, music, and fun, and show off your creative costumes.
Stay updated on SEMFA events through their Facebook and Instagram pages.
With files from Dave Anthony