#FIRSTLOOK: KALAMANSI FEST FILIPINO-CANADIAN FESTIVAL KICKS OFF AUGUST 8TH

Kalamansi Fest is back and bigger than ever.

Presented by Kalamansi Collective and Barkada Mrkt, Kalamansi Fest returns to Toronto for its second year this August, transforming STACKT Market into a vibrant celebration of Filipino culture, food, music, creativity, and community.

As North America’s first and only festival dedicated to celebrating the greatest citrus of all time, Kalamansi Fest brings together local entrepreneurs, artists, chefs, performers, and community members for a one-of-a-kind cultural experience inspired by the beloved Filipino citrus fruit.

New this year, the festival expands to two days. Saturday, August 8 will feature a lively night market experience, while Sunday, August 9 will host a full day market packed with food vendors, local businesses, live entertainment, cultural programming, and family-friendly activities.

“What started as a celebration of a humble citrus fruit has grown into something much bigger,” said Kris Pangilinan, Founder of Kalamansi Collective. “Kalamansi Fest is really about celebrating Filipino creativity, entrepreneurship, and community. Last year’s response showed us there’s a strong appetite for experiences that bring people together through culture, food, and storytelling. Expanding to two days allows us to showcase even more of the incredible talent and energy that exists within our community.”
Since its founding, Kalamansi Collective has become more than just a clothing and lifestyle brand, it has become a leading force in Filipino-Canadian cultural programming and storytelling. Beyond Kalamansi Fest, the team produces Kalamansi Chats, a conversation series highlighting Filipino stories and perspectives, and partners on community initiatives across Canada. Kalamansi Collective also curated Seafood City Canada’s popular Late Night Madness events in Scarborough, helping create experiences that celebrate Filipino culture while supporting young local DJs from Toronto.

“At a time when people are looking for authentic ways to connect, culture has the power to bring communities together,” added Pangilinan. “Kalamansi Fest creates a space where people can learn more about the fruit and the Filipino culture while supporting local businesses, and celebrate together. Whether you’re Filipino or experiencing the taste of kalamansi for the first time, everyone is welcome.”

Building on the success of last year’s inaugural festival, organizers expect an even larger turnout this year.
“Kalamansi Fest represents everything we love about community markets,” said Izzie Santiago, Co-Founder of Barkada Mrkt. “It’s a place where local businesses, artists, and food creators can thrive while introducing people to new experiences and cultures. The energy last year was incredible, and we’re excited to make this year’s festival even bigger.”

“The growth of Kalamansi Fest reflects the growing visibility and influence of Filipino entrepreneurs, creatives, and community builders across Canada,” added Aiza Panganiban, Co-Founder of Barkada Mrkt. “We’re proud to help create a platform that celebrates that momentum while bringing people together through food, music, and culture.”

Festival attendees can expect a vibrant weekend filled with live music, DJs, local vendors, cultural experiences, family-friendly programming, and an incredible lineup of Filipino and Asian food vendors serving unique kalamansi-inspired offerings. From shopping and community activations to discovering new flavours and supporting local entrepreneurs, Kalamansi Fest offers something for everyone while celebrating the versatility and cultural significance of kalamansi.

KALAMANSI FEST
Presented by Kalamansi Collective & Barkada Mrkt
Stackt Market
28 Bathurst Street, Toronto

August 8, 2026 4pm-10pm
August 9, 2026 11am-5pm

Additional vendor announcements, programming details, and performer lineups will be announced in the coming weeks.