Hiraya is an ancient Filipino word that means “fruit of one’s hopes, dreams and aspirations.” This definition becomes larger than life with the first-ever Hiraya Night Sky Festival, which is slated from 17 to 18 January at the Clark Global City in Pampanga.

In its inaugural year, Hiraya introduces a full-day festival format that includes hot air balloon activities, paramotor flights, car drifting exhibitions, interactive booths and a curated food park. When night falls, a two-night concert will feature the best millennial and Gen Z performers and bands and a drone exhibition.

Hiraya’s uniqueness

“What makes the Hiraya Festival unique is that it celebrates the Filipinos’ creativity, talent and passion in diverse means and ways,” says project manager Marvin Atienza. “To those who are familiar with the song ‘Up, Up and Away’ by the iconic pop group 5th Dimension that was about riding and flying beautiful hot air balloons, yes, it is one of the major attractions. But there is more to this festival that people can enjoy, experience, have fun, share moments and make memories together.

“What we offer are music, aviation sports, motorsports, visual arts, food and community-driven experiences,” Atienza adds.

Co-producer Russel Di asserts, “We are all feeling like Kevin Costner in the movie Field of Dreams whose character’s name was Ray Kinsella, who was guided by the lines, ‘if you build it, they will come.’ The vision we are daring to pursue and the dream we intend to realize is to establish Hiraya as the new cultural platform for artists, creatives and festival-goers.”

What to expect

On day one, what to expect as early as 6 a.m. are aviation and motorsports exhibitions led by Ashey Sison for the car drifting and Arthur Austra for paramotors; experiential zones and food concessions. Music festival grounds open at 3 p.m. Hot air balloon lighting at sunset. Concert starts by 6 p.m. and the initial festival run concluding with a drone light show and fireworks display.

Lineup of concert performers on the first night are Quatro Band, Amiel Sol, Erl Agustin, Sun Kissed Lola, Juan Karlos and Flow G.

“It’s diverse, exciting and onstage, these artists will surely sing their biggest and more to all,” Atienza says.

On the second night of the music festival component, artists performing on the concert stage are Carl Timbol, Kim Leo, Raya, Bandang Lapis, Rob Daniel, Doniela and IV of Spades.

“I hope that everyone will come to the very first Hiraya Night Sky Festival, Please send us your love and support. This is a truly a special coming together and spectacle that celebrates Filipino talents and expertise in aviation and motor sports. Join us as in realizing our dreams and be part of this artistic, cultural and community endeavor.”