The Sydney Ube Festival, held on October 21, 2023, in Alexandria, was a dynamic blend of drinks, desserts, and Filipino culture. Exclusively for Ube Cream Liqueur customers and their guests, this inaugural event celebrated ube and Filipino heritage.
The festival offered a contemporary take on Filipino culture, featuring Armando, a fashion designer who showcased '90s-inspired clothing with a Filipino twist, combining vibrant colors and traditional materials. Freelance creative Rizcel Gagawanan conducted a workshop on baybayin, the nearly forgotten art of Filipino calligraphy.
The festival boasted an impressive lineup of musical and comedic performances. Local comedians, The Cheatcoders, and their musical guests provided laughter and tunes. Singers Marlon Quijano and Richard “Chard” P. had the audience singing along, like it was your Tita Baby’s birthday. The night's headliners, the local rap collective "DarkSYDe" (pronounced darkside), including ILL P, Grexory, and DZR, electrified the stage, leaving the crowd in high spirits.
The festival's heart and soul resided in its food and drink vendors, offering an array of delectable treats for those with a sweet tooth. Mrs. Ube presented an assortment of cakes, and Social Tea Station served bubble tea for non-alcoholic enthusiasts.
The festival's highlight was the 7000 Islands wine and spirits bar, where Ube cream liqueur flowed. The vibrant vendor displays and the sense of community coming together created a heartwarming atmosphere. Competitions and prizes added an extra layer of excitement to the festivities.
For all who attended, the memories from the Sydney Ube Festival will endure. Those who missed out eagerly anticipate the next Sydney Ube Festival in 2024, a unique celebration of Ube and Filipino culture.
