Vina Morales Brings the House Down at Fiesta in America 2025
East Rutherford, NJ – August 18, 2025 — The 28th Annual Fiesta in America closed on a high note last Aug 16 and 17 at American Dream in East Rutherford, New Jersey, once again proving why it’s the largest indoor Filipino cultural and business expo in the United States. Thousands of Filipino Americans and multicultural guests packed Court A of the massive entertainment complex for two days of music, food, shopping, and community.
This year’s Fiesta set a new mark with 35 performers — up from 28 last year — and featured a little bit of everything: cultural dances by youth groups, a Philippine-inspired fashion show led by designer Bessie Besana, live bands, powerhouse singers, and dozens of exhibitors from both the Philippines and the U.S.
The moment everyone talked about came on Sunday when multi-awarded singer and actress Vina Morales lit up the stage. Her medleys of beloved Filipino classics had the crowd clapping and singing along, and an a cappella number showed off her voice at its purest. By the end, Court A had turned into one big community concert.
On social media, Morales shared her gratitude: “Just before the GMA Hour at Fiesta in America… Maraming salamat po, mga kababayan! Huge congratulations to all the coordinators for a successful 2-day event. I’m so grateful to see familiar faces and feel your love. Till next time!”
Sponsors and exhibitors take the spotlight
Fiesta in America is more than performances, of course — it’s also where culture meets commerce. Dozens of sponsors and exhibitors filled the floor, from travel deals to local food brands and U.S.-based Filipino entrepreneurs. Visitors browsed everything from Filipino traditional clothing to Filipino collectibles, while others learned about financial services, healthcare options, and lifestyle brands.
This year’s event was backed by major sponsors including GMA Pinoy TV, Korean Air, New Jersey Department of Health, Monde M.Y. San Skyflakes, Philippine Airlines, and Tita’s Special Pampanga Foods. Their support helped make possible the wide range of health information, food tastings, and family-friendly activities that kept the crowds engaged all weekend.
What the crowd had to say
The feedback was enthusiastic:
“Keep doing a great job! It was fun! Thank you for bringing the Philippines to NJ!”
“Good avenue for us to connect with potential clients and business partners.”
For many exhibitors, Fiesta was a rare opportunity to meet one of the fastest-growing immigrant communities in the U.S. Filipino Americans have a median household income above $100,000, making them an attractive audience for both Philippine and American brands. Families saw it as a chance to introduce their kids to cultural traditions, while performers used the stage as a springboard to new audiences.
More than a festival
Fiesta in America has always aimed to blend heritage with opportunity. Through its F.I.E.S.T.A. framework — Fostering Innovative Entrepreneurship and Strategic Trade Alliances — the event has become a space where cultural pride and business growth intersect.
“This year showed once again how culture and commerce can work together to build bridges across communities,” said Fernando Mendez, President and CEO. “From Vina Morales’ unforgettable performance to the business matches happening on the expo floor, Fiesta continues to be a catalyst for Filipino visibility and opportunity in America.”
What’s next
With the success of this year’s event, organizers are already planning a bigger 2026 edition. Another top-tier main performer will be announced to carry forward the energy Morales brought to this year’s stage.
Save the dates:
- Fiesta in America 2026: August 15 & 16 at American Dream
- Pasko in America: December 6, 2025, also at American Dream
“Fiesta in America isn’t just an event,” Mendez added. “It’s a movement that brings Filipinos and multicultural audiences together, generation after generation. We can’t wait to see everyone again next year.”
For more information, visit https://www.philippinefiestausa.com or fiestainamerica.com. You may also contact Philippine Fiesta USA Inc., dba Fiesta in America, at 212.682.6610 or via email at info@fiestainamerica.com
