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Pagdiriwang Philippine Festival, June 6-7

Seattle Center Festál:  Pagdiriwang Philippine Festival, presents a colorful exploration of Philippine traditions and culture, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., June 6 – 7, in Seattle Center Armory and Mural Amphitheatre. This independence celebration features costumes and pageantry, Filipino bands, hands-on children’s activities, art exhibits and martial arts.

The 29th annual Pagdiriwang Philippine Festival takes the theme “Mindanao:  Island of Varied Hues,” emphasizing the heritage and culture of the second largest island in the Philippine archipelago. Indigenous dances accompanied by traditional musical instruments highlight the artistry of the island. A demonstration entitled “How to Wear a Malong” teaches visitors about the garment worn by both the men and women of Mindanao. Philippine tourism director Purificacion Suanding-Molintas is expected to attend the festival.

Performance highlights include traditional dances from the Cordillera Region, a demonstration of Philippine martial arts and live Filipino-American music. Visitors are invited to learn tribal dances in a choreographer-led workshop accompanied by live music.

A showcase of colorful indigenous costumes, an exhibition by Filipino visual artists and a photographer, historical displays and rare artifacts underline the visual culture of the Philippines. The diversity of Filipino cooking is apparent in the wide variety of foods and desserts on offer, including Filipino empanadas. Children’s activities, including a robotics workshop and 3-D art projects, and a marketplace selling clothing, art, artifacts and crafts are also offered.

Seattle Center Festál is a program of Seattle Center Productions. Admission is free-of-charge. For more information on Pagdiriwang Philippine Festival and other Seattle Center public programming, click on Seattle Center or call 206 684-7200.