Pasko 2023
The Philippine Cultural Foundation, Inc., in collaboration with Ilocano USA (IUSA), cordially invites you to join in the festivities of Pasko 2023, a Christmas celebration with a Filipino flair. This event is set to take place on Sunday, December 17, 2023, starting at 12:00 noon and continuing until 6:00 PM, followed by Simbang Gabi at 7 PM. The venue for this joyous occasion is none other than PCFI’s Bayanihan Arts and Events Center, nestled at 14301 Nine Eagles Drive, Tampa, FL 33626.
At Pasko 2023, you’ll have the opportunity to savor authentic Philippine cuisine and delectable holiday treats offered by various food vendors. Additionally, individual Filipino-American businesses from the Tampa Bay Area will be selling an array of merchandise.
The Bayanihan Arts and Events Center will come alive with non-stop entertainment provided by dedicated artists from the Tampa Bay Area. The lineup includes PCFI’s resident performing groups: the Philippine Choral Group, Philippine Performing Arts Company, Indak Pambata, and the Musikong Kawayan Bamboo Ensemble.
A captivating live Nativity presentation, directed by Vivian Furigay-Dudgeon, is also in the works, brought to life by the efforts of Filipino-American volunteers.
This year’s emcee will be none other than Emil Inducil Cruz.
Christmas Tree Competition
In keeping with tradition, Pasko features a Christmas Tree competition involving PCFI member organizations. These beautifully decorated holiday trees will be on display throughout the festival hall.
Parol-Making Competition
Everyone is encouraged to bring a parol (a traditional Philippine Christmas lantern), with a special prize awaiting the most exquisite parol at the festival.
Gift-Giving with Santa
Families can also bring gifts for children! Simply drop off your gifts at the main tree, and Santa will ensure they are distributed to the little ones at Pasko.
Simbang Gabi
As a continuation of tradition, a Simbang Gabi novena mass will take place at the Bayanihan Arts and Events Center at 7:00 PM, immediately following Pasko 2023. Simbang Gabi is a heartfelt nine-day series of Masses observed by Catholics and Aglipayans in the Philippines in anticipation of Christmas and to pay homage to the Blessed Virgin Mary. In the Tampa Bay Area, the Sto. Nino Shrine USA, Inc. and Ang Bisaya of Florida have thoughtfully arranged these daily Masses at various locations to complete the nine-day novena.
Admission
Admission to Pasko is $5.00. Children five years old and under are free.
Parking
Parking at the festival is free at designated parking areas. Please do not park on reserved parking areas.
For more information about vendors and performers at Pasko 2022, please call Marly at (727) 798-2854 or the Bayanihan Arts and Events Center office at (813) 925-1232 or visit us online at www.pcfitampa.org.