Special to the Times
Fiesta, Alabama’s largest celebration of Hispanic culture and heritage, held its 16th annual festival on Saturday in Birmingham’s Linn Park.
Latino culture is often described as “colorful,” indicating the characteristic vibrance that weaves itself through the many Spanish-speaking countries and cultures of the world. As such, this year’s festival was themed “Celebrando A Todo Color” or “Celebrating in Full Color.”
Since its inception in 2003, Fiesta has served as a bridge, celebrating the culturally diverse traditions of Latin America’s various Spanish-speaking countries in Birmingham. With the goal of educating the public about the many different Hispanic countries and their cultures, Fiesta provides the opportunity for more than 15,000 patrons to journey through 20 represented countries and experience the best of Hispanic art, music, food and dance.
Over the course of its 16-year history, Fiesta has proven to be an excellent resource for our Hispanic community. The festival provides family-friendly fun for all ages. While the largest crowd can be found in front of the main music stage, Fiesta offers a wide assortment of activities, from storytelling to wrestling exhibitions. Music, dance, performing arts, visual arts, children’s activities, soccer, cultural education, authentic Latin food as well as community and health-related resources are all part of the event.
Fiesta gives Alabamians a unique opportunity to experience the best of Latin American countries in their own backyard! It showcases that Birmingham is a community that encourages multiculturalism, sensitivity and acceptance.
