Release Date: August 17,2023
The Third Annual Akron Latin Festival is Coming to Downtown Akron
August 17, 2023, Akron, OH — Downtown Akron Partnership (DAP) announces the Third Annual Akron Latin Festival, presented by Proyecto RAICES, will be coming to downtown’s Cascade Plaza on Saturday, September 16, from 3 to 9 pm. The celebration kicks off Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 – October 15), and will include food, traditional dances, music, crafts and family activities, vendors, and a performance from the Sammy DeLeon Latin Jazz Orchestra.
DAP joined Proyecto RAICES, North Hill Community Development Corporation (NHCDC), the City of Akron, and a committee of local volunteers to plan this year’s festival.
DAP President and CEO Suzie Graham says, “We are honored to be able to host the Akron Latin Festival downtown. We promote a vibrant, valuable downtown for all people, so we are pleased and excited to host a celebration of the rich Latin and Hispanic culture of our community.”
Proyecto RAICES Executive Director Rita Aggarwal says, “Proyecto RAICES welcomes the opportunity to showcase Akron's diverse Hispanic community in downtown Akron. Everyone is invited to enjoy the great food, music, and beautiful cultures of the Central and Latin American region.
NHCDC Executive Director Justin Chenault says, “At NHCDC, our passion lies in fostering collaboration and crafting genuine, inclusive cultural experiences. We extend our gratitude to Suzie and the DAP team for their dedication to creating spaces that facilitate the connection between North Hill and Downtown. We believe in the transformative impact this endeavor will have, ensuring that all residents are represented across these spaces.”
Festival organizers from DAP estimate a turnout of 1,000 or more for the event, which is free and open to the public. For an updated schedule of festival offerings and activities, check the event listing on the DAP events calendar: https://bit.ly/AkronLatinFest23.
Call for Vendors
Festival organizers are still accepting vendor applications. They are specifically looking for the following.
- Food vendors with Latin or Hispanic-inspired food as the primary focus of their menu.
- Unique, Latin and/or Hispanic, Akron-based retail and art vendors, including but not limited to art, body care (soaps, etc.), jewelry, clothing, packaged food and cultural items.
Interested parties should apply online.
Food Vendor Application: https://bit.ly/FoodVendor_AkronLatinFest
Retail and Art Vendor Application: https://bit.ly/RetailVendor_AkronLatinFest
Photos: The Green Photograph Studio
The Third Annual Akron Latin Festival is presented by Proyecto RAICES, the North Hill Community Development Corporation, Downtown Akron Partnership, and the City of Akron. Additional support is provided by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, Ohio Arts Council, GAR Foundation, Akron Community Foundation, the County of Summit ADM Board, Goodyear, AxessPointe Community Health Centers, Bridgestone, the Interbelt Nite Club, and Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez, LPA.