San Jose Celebrates Philippine Independence with Full Jeepney Jam

Get ready, San Jose! The fourth annual Full Jeepney Jam is kicking off this Friday, June 6th, bringing a vibrant celebration of Philippine Independence Day to the heart of the South Bay. This free, all-ages festival will feature award-winning artist Ruby Ibarra, alongside a host of talented Filipino-American performers, delicious food, and creative designers.

Experience the Richness of Filipino Culture in the South Bay

Organized by Filipino Americans Coming Together San Jose (FACT San Jose), the Full Jeepney Jam is a cornerstone event dedicated to curating Filipino American cultural experiences. While Philippine Independence Day officially falls on June 12th, San Jose is starting the festivities early, offering a unique opportunity for locals to immerse themselves in the rich heritage and contemporary artistry of the Filipino community.

Headliner: Ruby Ibarra Takes the Stage

This year’s event is proud to feature NPR Tiny Desk winner Ruby Ibarra as the headliner. A talented Filipino rapper hailing from San Lorenzo, Ibarra recently achieved national recognition by winning a major contest among nearly 7,500 entrants with her powerful track, “Bakunawa.” Her performance is sure to be a highlight, showcasing Bay Area talent on a significant cultural platform. Expect dynamic sets from other local Filipino-American artists like Aranina, Yamz, and Rheyanna May, adding to the day’s festive atmosphere.

Essential Event Information for Attendees

Planning your visit to the Full Jeepney Jam is easy. The event takes place on Friday, June 6th, 2025, from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the iconic San Jose Flea Market, located at 1590 Berryessa Road. Admission is completely free for all ages, making it an accessible outing for families and individuals alike. For those driving, on-site parking is available for a $5 fee. Alternatively, the venue is just a short, convenient walk from the Berryessa/North San Jose BART station, providing an excellent public transportation option for attendees across the Bay Area.

More Than Just a Festival: Community and Connection

The Full Jeepney Jam is more than just a single event; it’s a testament to the ongoing efforts of organizations like FACT San Jose to foster community and celebrate Filipino American identity. Established in 2019, FACT San Jose actively works to “curate Filipino American cultural events” in the South Bay, including annual celebrations for Filipino American History Month in October. These initiatives play a vital role in showcasing the community’s vibrant culture and providing platforms for artists and entrepreneurs.

For those interested in exploring further afield, another Filipino cultural festival, “Vallejo Pista Sa Nayon,” is scheduled for Saturday, June 7th, at the Mare Island Coal Sheds in Vallejo. This offers another fantastic opportunity to experience the rich cultural tapestry of the Filipino community in the wider Bay Area.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the Full Jeepney Jam?
  It’s the fourth annual cultural festival in San Jose celebrating Philippine Independence Day, featuring Filipino-American artists, food, and designers.
• Who is the main performer?
  The event is headlined by Ruby Ibarra, a Bay Area Filipino rapper and NPR Tiny Desk contest winner from San Lorenzo.
• Is there a cost to attend?
  Admission to the Full Jeepney Jam is free for all ages. On-site parking costs $5.
• How can I get to the event?
  The festival is at the San Jose Flea Market, 1590 Berryessa Road, and is a short walk from the Berryessa/North San Jose BART station.
• What kind of vendors will be there?
  Attendees can expect a diverse array of Filipino artists, food vendors, and designers showcasing their work.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to connect with the Bay Area’s Filipino American community, enjoy incredible talent, and celebrate a significant cultural milestone right here in San Jose. Mark your calendars and join the festivities!

San Jose Celebrates Philippine Independence Full Jeepney Jam