NEW ORLEANS – The culture and traditions of the Hispanic community will come alive at the 2024 West Bank Hispanic Heritage Festival, scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 12, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The festival, free and open to the public, will take place on the Great Lawn at the University of Holy Cross (UHC) in Algiers, a partnership between the University of Holy Cross and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana.
This cultural festival offers a full day of family-friendly activities celebrating Hispanic heritage. Attendees can enjoy performances by local entertainers, many of whom have performed on the stages of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, along with a variety of food and beverage options, and unique creations from local art vendors.
Stephanie McNeely, the festival committee chair and First Lady of the University of Holy Cross, highlighted the importance of creating a new, standing event to celebrate Hispanic heritage on the West Bank of New Orleans. “The West Bank Hispanic Heritage Festival is more than a celebration of culture; it’s a powerful opportunity to unite our community,” said McNeely. “By honoring our shared history and the diverse traditions we enjoy, we are creating a space where everyone can come together, connect, and celebrate what makes our community unique.”
Dr. Stanton McNeely, president of the University of Holy Cross, emphasized the significance of hosting this festival. “We are honored to bring the West Bank Hispanic Heritage Festival to the University of Holy Cross,” said Dr. McNeely. “This event not only celebrates the vibrant contributions of the Hispanic community to our region but also provides an invaluable opportunity to showcase our welcoming post-secondary educational campus.