To amplify and connect Filipinos-Canadians to their rich and vibrant heritage, the inaugural three-day Filipino-Canadian Book Festival will celebrate the community with keynote speeches, panels, workshops, and a market featuring Filipino-owned businesses and brands.

The festival has partnered with the Massy Arts Society, an Indigenous-led non-profit organization, to offer a diverse range of events—both free and ticketed. Free events include a zine-making workshop (which will also be a Palestine fundraiser), children’s storytelling, and an open-mic night. For ticketed events, highlights include a keynote speech from author Catherine Hernandez, when she will also be presented with the CanDila Award.

“With the Filipino-Canadian Book Festival, we’re carving out a space where our stories and voices can be heard loud and clear,” Nathalie De Los Santos, one of the event organizers, shares in a statement. “It’s about building bridges between generations and cultures within our community and beyond.”

Filipino-Canadian Book Festival 2024

When: July 12 to July 14

Where: Collingwood Neighbourhood House and Massy Arts Gallery

Admission: Ranges from free to ticketed; tickets available here