A Feast for the Senses: Celebrating the Philippines at the First Cultural Awareness Fair

Perley Health came alive with music, colour, and the flavours of Filipino cuisine on April 7th at the launch of the Perley Health Cultural Awareness Fairs (a brand-new program hosted by the Cultural Awareness & Inclusion Committee in partnership with the Food & Nutrition team). This event was the first of a series designed to showcase the cultures that make up the Perley community, with an event taking place four times a year. These Cultural Awareness Fairs are designed to delight all five senses, and from the moment guests arrived, they were immersed in a multi-sensory experience that blended education and celebration.

And what a start it was! The inaugural event honoured the vibrant culture of the Philippines, and with deep ties to the Perley Health community—through staff, volunteers, residents, tenants, and loved ones—the Philippines was a fitting choice to begin this exciting new tradition. Filipino traditions, geography, and history were highlighted (including fascinating facts about the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site), as well as the symbolic strength of the carabao (the national animal), and the country's status as one of the world's 17 megadiverse nations.

Of course, no cultural celebration would be complete without food, and this one was a true feast. Thoughtfully prepared by the Food & Nutrition team, the menu reflected the heart and soul of Filipino cuisine, and included pineapple juice; Lumpia (a delicate, crispy spring rolls filled with savoury goodness); Chicken Adobo (a national favourite, bursting with tangy, rich, and savoury flavours, served with steamed rice); Pancit (stir-fried noodles with vegetables, representing longevity and celebration); and Cassava Cake with Macapuno (a sweet, chewy dessert infused with the unique taste of coconut). Every bite told a story of family, celebration, and the warm hospitality that Filipino culture is known for.

After lunch was finished being served, the Perley community was then treated to an incredible concert of traditional Filipino music performed by staff, volunteers, and a Perley resident. It was a perfect way to end such a memorable afternoon! The blend of traditional Filipino music and the involvement of staff, volunteers, and a Perley resident created such a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It was amazing to see first-hand how music has the power to bring people together and uplift everyone's spirits. It was an experience that will stay with everyone for a long time!

The Cultural Awareness Fairs are more than just a theme event—they are an invitation to connect, reflect, and celebrate the diversity within Perley Health. The initiative aligns with our People First philosophy, encouraging staff and community members to learn about each other's backgrounds and traditions in a meaningful way. And this is just the beginning.

The Cultural Awareness & Inclusion Committee is committed to continuing this work throughout the year. With three more fairs planned annually, we'll have the opportunity to explore new cultures, new cuisines, and new connections, together.

Do you have an idea for a future Cultural Awareness Fair? A recipe, tradition, or cultural celebration you'd like to share? We want to hear from you! Share your by emailing caicommittee@perleyhealth.ca .

The Perley Health community was then treated to an incredible display of Filipino culture, with traditional Filipino music performed by staff, volunteers, and a Perley resident. It was a perfect way to end such a memorable afternoon! The blend of traditional Filipino music and the involvement of staff, volunteers, and a Perley resident created such a warm, welcoming atmosphere.