The Maginhawa Arts and Food Festival 2024 brought together food enthusiasts on Saturday at Maginhawa Street, Quezon City as part of the city’s 85th anniversary. 

Over 100 merchants showcased a variety of food offerings, not just from Maginhawa but also from other iconic food districts like Banawe and Kapitolyo to showcase their unique flavors and promote Maginhawa as a must-visit food destination. 

"We are celebrating the 85th anniversary of Quezon City, so medyo ginawa namin siyang bigger and grander this time," said Maginhawa Food Community president Jules Guiang. 

(We are celebrating the 85th anniversary of Quezon City, so we made it a bit bigger and grander this time.) 

"If you think of Banawe, you have Chinese food. If you think of La Loma, you have lechon. In Maginhawa, you have so much di 'ba? Sobrang daming options," he added.

(In Maginhawa, you have so much, right? There are so many options.)

Mayor Joy Belmonte and former senator Leila de Lima also graced the event.

Celine Taminga, an attendee, shared, "Masaya kasi may space tayo para sa mga tao ngayon lahat kami tumatambay nagbabonding. Maraming pagkain, maraming activities."

(I'm happy because we have space for people now. We're all hanging out, bonding. There's lots of food and activities.)

Janel Beatrice, another attendee, said, "Pumunta po kami dito for experience kasi first time namin pumunta dito." 

(We came here for the experience because it's our first time visiting.)

Irene Almonte, also an attendee, added, "Masasarap po yung pagkain and more on nagfofocus sila sa local foods."

(The food is delicious, and they really focus on local dishes.)

The event also featured live performances from bands such as Imago, Sud, The Ridleys, and Kiyo, among others.

Beyond food and entertainment, the festival emphasized supporting small businesses. 

"Everytime you go here, you are supporting not only the business owners but also the employees of these small businesses," Guiang said.