Latin Fest comes to Galt Gardens today

By Alejandra Pulido-Guzman - Lethbridge Herald on July 6, 2024.

Herald file photo - Members of the Mi Colombia Linda dance group perform for an audience during a past Latin Fest event at Galt Gardens.

LETHBRIDGE HERALDapulido@lethbridgeherald.com

The Southern Alberta Ethnic Association is bringing their ninth annual Latin Fest back to Galt Gardens today after hosting it at the Multicultural Centre for the last few years.

Anastasia Sereda, executive director told the Herald during a phone interview on they are very excited to bring the festival back to the park, as it was there where it all started.

“Latin Fest, a vibrant celebration of Latin traditions, flavours, music, and dance. Latin Fest promises a rich cultural experience, showcasing the sights, sounds, and tastes of the Latin community in southern Alberta,” said Sereda.

She said those in attendance can expect a variety of Latin food vendors, food trucks, live performers, musicians, dancers, children’s piñatas, community resources, dance lessons, bouncy castles, beer gardens, and more.

“Curated by Latin SAEA members, the festival ensures authenticity and community leadership. Countries represented at the festival include Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, Honduras, Mexico, and Nicaragua,” said Sereda.

She said the festival is driven and planned by SAEA’s Latin American members which brings authenticity to the event.

“The festival is a really great way to learn about the community members and their love for Latin culture, so it’s a fun and educational way of experiencing Latin culture,” said Sereda.

She said this year they are able to bring the festival back to Galt Gardens after hosting it at the Multicultural Centre wheere they had to adhere to restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath, while they slowly brought it back to what it was before.

“We had some smaller Latin groups more involved before the pandemic, they became a little bit less involved during and after the pandemic, but now it seems like there’s a re-emergence of these groups. So we’re really excited about that people are wanting to showcase their culture on a bigger platform.”

Sereda said the event will follow a program, which is available to the public in SAEA’s social media platforms where people can find a list of performances, dance lessons, children activities, and more.

Latin Fest will take place at Galt Gardens from noon to 9 p.m. but for those who want to keep the party going, Sereda said there is a place they can go.

“The official Latin Fest after-party is being held at the multicultural centre from 10 p.m. Until 2 a.m. for adult only. People can dance all night and there will be some Latin food as well,” said Sereda.

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