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This past weekend, thousands of people filled Pennsylvania Avenue in the nation’s capital for Fiesta DC, the city’s largest Latino festival. The annual event featured costumes, folkloric dancers and food stands with flavors from across Latin America.
For many, the festival offered a chance to reconnect with their roots and share part of their culture with the world.
“For me, it’s like a dream come true to bring Barranquilla’s Carnival to Washington, D.C.,” said José Forero, a Colombian performer. “It’s extremely important to seek out and show the friendly face and unity that exists among all Latin Americans, especially here abroad.”
Bolivian vendor Floyd Rojas, attending the festival for the first time, called the event a celebration of Latino identity.
“What I love about this festival is that I see Puerto Rico, Nicaragua, Peru, Colombia, Mexico — so many different cultures coming together to unite us, especially during a tough time now,” he said.
On its first day, not even the rain could stop the celebration. As umbrellas popped open and yellow raincoats were handed out to attendees, dancers like Moe Tarawally-Maldonado kept moving.
“I love dancing, I love spreading love and positivity with it,” said dancer Moe Tarawally-Maldonado. “I’m proud to be Afro-Latino and African American. That’s why I’m here.”
Celebrations for Hispanic Heritage Month will continue nationwide through Oct. 15.
