Noel Wien Library filled with culture, colors and lumpia Saturday afternoon for the kick off of celebrations for Filipino American History Month.

Put on by the Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks (Fil-Am), the gathering honored the start of the month of the first documented presence of Filipinos in the U.S. in 1587.

“Filipino culture is a beautiful blend of indigenous roots, Asian heritage and Spanish and American influences,” said Shiela May Paraggua, public relations officer of Fil-Am. “We invite everyone, Filipino or not, to learn to reflect and celebrate the richness of Filipino identity.”

The Sampaguita Dancers took to the stage at the top of the event in colorful floor length skirts with metallic detailing. The four women swayed to the song “Dayang Dayang” shaking the beads on

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