4th of July
Filipino-American Association of Idaho Independence Day Celebrations: Honoring Heritage and Freedom on July 4th
Filipinos in Boise, Idaho, celebrate July 4th with a unique blend of American and Filipino traditions,
fostering a sense of community and cultural pride. Despite being away from our homeland, we maintain
a strong connection to our Filipino heritage while embracing our new home.
The preparations started in the afternoon, July 3rd, with dedicated Fil-Am members and volunteers
working tirelessly to decorate the float for the parade with red, white, and blue decorations. Preparing a
float for the 4th of July parade requires careful planning and teamwork. Our team puts in the effort,
creativity, and enthusiasm to make the float a stunning piece for the parade. The float volunteers gather
to finalize the design and theme, ensuring it aligns with the Independence Day spirit.
The heart of any Filipino celebration lies in its food. Members and volunteers brought delectable dishes.
It’s always a feast for Filipinos at every gathering and we called it “Potluck”. It is a gastronomic feast
filled with mostly authentic dishes representing the rich flavors of the Philippines. We indulge our
delicious food during this get-together.
As the day draws to a close, some of the members share their excitement and satisfaction, knowing that
all our hard work and dedication will bring joy and pride to everyone attending the Filipino American
Association's July 4th celebration in Idaho.
Filipino-American Association of Idaho's 4th of July celebrations often showcase the rich cultural
heritage. Parades are a common sight, with colorful floats decorated with both Philippine and American
flags, reflecting the community's unity and loyalty to both cultures. Fellow parade participants proudly
display our heritage through traditional Filipino attire, such as Barong Tagalog or Filipiniana dress
outfits, accompanied by the upbeat sounds of Filipino music. Other members and volunteers are at the
back of the float dancing the Filipino folk dance.
In conclusion, July 4th celebrations in Boise, Idaho, for Filipinos are a harmonious blend of Filipino
Identity and American patriotism. Filipinos must unite, strengthen bonds, and share our traditions with
American friends and neighbors. It's a day for us to come together as a community, showcasing our
cultural pride while appreciating our home in America