NEW ORLEANS – West Bank Hispanic Heritage Festival organizers announced today that over 30 vendors will participate in this year’s inaugural event to bring a day of vibrant music, diverse culinary offerings, and community celebrations to the University of Holy Cross (UHC) campus in Algiers on Oct. 12 from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
This year’s festival, free and open to the public, will have offerings for everyone including a full lineup of music, entertainment for adults and kids, and a large community health event. From live performances to delicious food, the festival is designed to honor Hispanic heritage in an inclusive environment where everyone is welcome.
“Our mission is to bring together people from all backgrounds throughout the city,” said Stephanie Davi McNeely, chair of the West Bank Hispanic Heritage Festival and the First Lady of the University of Holy Cross, in a press release about the festival. “The festival highlights the diversity of our Hispanic culture through music, food, art and education in a fun, family-friendly and free environment, right in the heart of the UHC campus.”
Live entertainment will keep the crowd energized throughout the day, with performances on the Redmann Law Stage by:
- La Tran-K Band – An energetic band that will keep the festivities lively with their dynamic tunes.
- Grupo Sensación – Bringing traditional and contemporary Latin sounds that will keep the crowd dancing.
- Fermin Ceballos – Performing a mix of modern and traditional Hispanic music.
- Mariachi Jalisco – Enjoy the classic mariachi tunes that celebrate the heart of Hispanic music.
- Ballet Folklórico Vive Mi Tierra – Traditional Mexican folk dance performances showcasing vibrant costumes and storytelling through movement.
- Dile Que NOLA – A local favorite bringing their unique Latin fusion sounds to the stage.
- ZUMBA with Sonia G Fitness – An energizing Zumba session to get everyone moving.
The Law Office of John Redmann, LLC serves many in the Hispanic community, and their sponsorship of the festival stage is part of their commitment to celebrating the many cultures in our area.
Additionally, a diverse lineup of food vendors and food trucks will offer a taste of authentic Hispanic and local flavors. Festival-goers can indulge in dishes from:
- Food Vendors: Anita’s Quesabirrias, Casita Jasmyn, Chick Fil A, Coop’s Burgers, El Macho Grill, Curramba La Bella Colombian Food, Hokena’s Cuisine, La Chilanga, Malkriados Kitchen, Mexi-pops by Angie, Mimas Peruvian Dessert, Mimi’s Sweets & Treats, Piece of Kookie, Life Gave Lemons Lemonade, Pistachio Coffee, The Creative Grind, and Waska.
- Food Trucks: MoFries, Kona Ice of the Crescent City, Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee of Jefferson, Wolf’s Burger Truck, and ZoraChristina Catering & Food Truck.
The festival also will feature a range of other vendors offering everything from unique accessories to skincare products. Notable vendors include Accesorios Yolis, Cervantes Lodge No. 5, F. & A.M., Colette, HairbyMaisa, Heroes Of New Orleans, Michelle Jackson (Author), Nolahoney Closet, Safari Smokes NOLA, Senior Insurance Options LLC, Teeleas Skin Care, Vintage NOLA Sales, and Y&T Jewelry Store.
Alongside the entertainment, the West Bank Hispanic Heritage Festival will also host a community health event, offering resources and information to promote wellness among attendees. The Beignet Fest Sensory Activation Vehicle will also make an appearance, providing a safe and welcoming space to step away from the crowds.
“Our UHC community is approximately 12 percent Hispanic, and we are excited to showcase not only the strong educational programs and welcoming campus environment that UHC offers, but also hope attendees are able to discover something new about the Hispanic culture that plays such an important role in our community,” said Dr. Stanton McNeely, president of the University of Holy Cross.
Event Details:
Date: Oct. 12
Location: Great Lawn, University of Holy Cross, West Bank, New Orleans
Time: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
This year’s event is made possible through a partnership between the University of Holy Cross and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana.
Attendees are encouraged to follow the festival’s Instagram page, @juntosnola, to stay up to date with announcements and developments leading up to the Oct. 12 event. Additional information is also available on the official festival website: https://uhcno.edu/calendar/hispanicheritagefestival.php.
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