By: Joan Mamawal Desrochers
Last October 15,2022, PACCGA celebrated our 27th Anniversary and Filipino American History Month with a full day celebration at the Mountain Park UMC in Stone Mountain. The event was participated by more than 35 vendors, organizations, and performers from the Filipino American Community here in GA. Judging by the attendance of more than one thousand festival goers, we can say that this first ever Sari-Sari Market was a real success. We did this as a PACCGA community! It was by no means easy as the committee had several challenges along the way. But WE DID IT! This is a festival by all of us, for all of us! Congratulations!
I was also a vendor so I could not really move around much. However, we asked, and there was only positive feedback. There was so much love, appreciation, support, and encouragement from every group, young and mature alike. The long food lines moved at a steady pace both at the indoor and outdoor space, leaving every customer happy and gastronomically satisfied. As for our food vendors, we heard two words-SOLD OUT!
“Everything I bought was so delicious. Ang sarap-sarap talaga!,” said one festival goer.
“We were so comfortable and relaxed. Getting here and parking was not an issue,” said another.
“We enjoyed ourselves so much, I was so proud to bring our American friends and let them experience our culture.”-Anonymous
“It is so huge, organized, and so successful. I am so happy to be here!” exclaimed a multi-awarded community leader.
Parking was ample and there was a lot of space for people to interact with each other, hang out, and enjoy each other’s company. The entertainment was amazing, and the gift shopping variety was superb. Everyone really enjoyed this authentic Filipino American experience. There was something for everyone, including face painting and a Pasabit game for the young children.
Our Filipino- American entrepreneurial spirit, talent, and creativity is without limit. I can keep on going but you must have been there in person to know what I mean. If you missed it, visit our website: www.paccga.org to see our official video and our photo gallery here.
Our commemorative book is going to be released soon and all the participating vendors and exhibitors will be in that book. Wait for it!
Sa uulitin! (See you next time!) Kaway- kaway! (Waving!)