Lethbridge’s fifth annual Festival Latino took place on Canada Day weekend, offering residents of the Alberta city the tastes and sounds of Latin American culture.
The festival featured traditional food served by local vendors and a beer garden, as well as live entertainment and activities. The Courtyard dance team showcased Latin styles, while kids could participate in hourly piñata breakings.
The event was produced by the Lethbridge Latin American Association, a local group dedicated to bringing Latino culture to Southern Alberta. The organization also holds the spring Grill Fest, an annual Community Expo, scheduled for November, and a New Years Eve celebration. Local organizations like this often use tools like poster printing, social media, and flyer printing to advertise events and connect to the community. LLAA’s Board of Directors, headed up by Jose Rauda, includes representatives of Latino businesses and student groups spanning a wide variety of Latin American cultures.
Festival Latino took place at Exhibition Park on June 30. Sponsors, ranging from large companies like Shaw and Canadian Tire to local businesses like Rossco’s Tree Service, contributed to the event. For those who missed out, or simply want a second swing at the piñata, there will be a similar event, Latin Fest, taking place the following weekend on June 6. This event, taking place at Galt Gardens, will also feature Latin music and food and is hosted by the Southern Alberta Ethnic Association.
