Banana Catchup: A Filipino Block Party
Saturday, October 19
11 AM - 9 PM
Only at 1-800-Lucky
Dear Readers,
When I moved to Miami, it hit me like a tidal wave. Growing up in places like San Diego, San Francisco, and New York, staying connected to my Filipino roots was as easy as hearing Tagalog on the streets or joining a neighborhood gathering. But in Miami, the Filipino community was a mere 647 people — compared to the 236,000 Filipinos in the New York Metro area, 310,000 in SF and 201,000 in San Diego!
As a business owner and a Filipino, this was a huge shift. Navigating supply chains and understanding the Miami market forced me to rethink everything — my approach to business, marketing, and how I’d introduce Filipino culture in a place where it wasn’t as familiar. Not to mention differences in the emphasis on work and available labor, I leaned into our shared history with Spanish culture — our flavors, language, and deep sense of family.
COVID did not help, throwing every projection out the window. But here’s the thing: after three years of recalibrating, I’m proud to say that our growth has been significant and consistent. What I’ve always believed holds true — when you continue to focus on creating a good product, maintain confidence, and the patience to build real relationships, success will follow. I’ve forged incredible friendships here, and to my surprise, Miami has become my fourth sense of home (...but always a New Yorker, Holler!).
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the power of community — especially when you’re creating one from the ground up. Last year, I wanted to create a space for us, so we threw a Filipino-style block party, full of food, dancing, and of course, some karaoke. It was more than a success — it was a moment of awakening.
And this Saturday, we’re back for the 2nd Annual Banana Catchup, with my amazing co-hosts Darren Mendoza of Lutong Pinoy and Cheryl Tiu of Cross Cultures. We’re bringing our own unique flavors, with an incredible lineup of chefs, dancers, and even some beloved Filipino beauty queens. Admission is free, the vibes are hot, and the love? Overflowing. Come celebrate with us!
Here is our Program Line Up
Here are our Chefs!
Darren Mendoza of Lutong Pinoy
Leicel Ros and Nancy Dominguez of Sili Miami
Here are our Vendors!
Thank you to Gaby Chiriboga, Kim Nolan from KN Public Relations and our Philippine Community!
See ya!
Nicole Ponseca
Fun Fact: San Francisco certifies Tagalog as 3rd required language in city affairs.
TALENT SPOTLIGHT
Kuya Trey
No block party is complete without music. C’mon now! Making sure the music flows during this Saturday is Kuya Trey! Join us for dancing and music from 12 - 7 PM.
MANHATTAN
October 18 - 19
Filipino Comedy Festival
West Side Comedy Club
I recently had the pleasure of catching up with the hilarious Patricia Dinglasan, founder of the Filipino Comedy Festival. After building a successful career in the beauty industry, Patricia did what many only dream of — she took the leap, left her 9-to-5, and followed her true passion: comedy. In our conversation, we talked about how she’s boldly carving out her own path through humor and creativity.
One thing that stood out during our chat was Patricia's heartfelt acknowledgment of the support she’s received from her family, particularly her husband. She credits his emotional and financial support as key factors in her ability to pursue this dream, and I can’t help but give a shoutout to their partnership. It’s a powerful reminder of how crucial love and support can be in chasing our goals.
If you’re in Manhattan this weekend, don’t miss the chance to catch the Filipino Comedy Festival at the West Side Comedy Club! The show runs tonight, October 18th, and again on Saturday, October 19th at 6 PM.
(P.S. Use code FILIPINOTIME for a discount!)
WASHINGTON D.C.
Looking forward to seeing everyone at the White House this week celebrating the Filipino American Community!
