The Fiesta Filipina Dance Troupe (FFDT), established in 1966, is the premier traditional Filipino performing dance company in North America. FFDT is a non-profit organization and is a member of the Mississauga Arts Council, the Community Folk Arts Council of Toronto and Folklore Canada. Led by Executive Director Estrellita "Estring" Aguinaldo, Executive Producer Odette Aguinaldo, Artistic Director
, Lynda Sue Aguinaldo and Musical Director Rose Aguinaldo, the company is poised to continue the legacy of the late George Aguinaldo whose unmatched artistic contribution has helped start and enhance the artistry of many Filipino folk groups. Its success and mission has made this dance troupe an institution to follow for many up and coming cultural dance troupes from around the world and for Filipinos and Filipino culture enthusiasts. Based in Mississauga, Ontario, this acclaimed Filipino Canadian folk arts ensemble, made up exclusively of volunteers, has been dedicated to promoting, preserving, and propagating Philippine arts and culture in Canada and the world through music, song and dance for 50 years. Through a wide range of activities, the Fiesta Filipina Dance Troupe has actively contributed to the knowledge base and to the appreciation of the diversity that exists in Canada. Its annual participation in the Metro Toronto International Caravan since 1969, and Carabram, the Multicultural Festival of Brampton as the Filipino-Canadian representative is a prime example of this company's dedication and contribution to enhancing Canada's multicultural community. It has also won many awards, with the latest being, winning Best Entertainment in 2005 in Carabram and The Banaag Award from the Philippine president last December 2004. The Banaag Award is given to Filipinos overseas, either individuals or associations, for their contribution, which significantly benefited a sector or community in the Philippines, or advanced the cause of overseas Filipino communities. The Banaag Award was given "in recognition of the remarkable achievements in showcasing the diversity of Filipino heritage through world class dance and musical performance and bringing the Philippines closer to overseas Filipinos and the rest of the world."
