Filipino BC and Partners Announce Lapu Lapu Day Festival 2026 and Commitment to Healing
JANUARY 7, 2026
Lapu Lapu Day Festival 2026 is planned for the weekend of April 17–19, 2026, in partnership with, Latincouver, Blueprint and EventLAB, with MYX Global returning as the festival’s media partner. Event details to be released soon.
Filipino BC recognizes the community’s shared grief following recent events, and has centred remembrance and healing as a key part of festival planning. Filipino BC will again be working closely with the City of Vancouver, the Province of British Columbia, and first responders to ensure that appropriate safety measures are in place.
“The Lapu Lapu Day Festival isn’t just about cultural celebration; it’s about creating a space for unity, care, and reflection–while honouring those we’ve lost,” says RJ Aquino, Chair, Filipino BC. “As we look ahead, we centre community healing and remembrance alongside cultural pride. This festival is a way to come together safely, to hold space for grief, and to reaffirm our commitment to one another through culture, connection, and collective care.”
“The Latin community suffered the devastating loss of four community members following the April 26 tragedy—people who had also contributed their time and care to making events like our annual Carnaval del Sol possible,” says Paola Murillo, Executive Director, Latincouver. “In the months that followed, we made the decision to continue planning Carnaval to honour their legacy and love for cultural events, and to create space for healing, remembrance, and collective strength. Our partnership with Filipino BC for Lapu Lapu Day 2026 reflects our shared commitment to supporting one another, honouring those we’ve lost, and uplifting our communities through culture, connection, and solidarity.”
The festival weekend is scheduled a week before the one-year mark of the April 26 tragedy, to allow that time to be dedicated to memorial events and reflection. Filipino BC will be hosting at least one memorial gathering, with additional details to be shared in the coming months. The organization has reached out to those in our care, and continues to connect with other community members to allow for meaningful engagement on the event.
A full line-up, schedule and programming for Lapu Lapu Day 2026 will be released shortly. Filipino BC invites the community to join us in honouring lives lost, celebrating Filipino culture with care, and continuing the work of healing together.
