KALAMAZOO, MI – People in the community gathered late Saturday afternoon to participate and celebrate Latino culture and history.
For the first time ever, the 2022 Latinx Kzoo Festival was held on August 20, at Bronson Park in downtown Kalamazoo. The fun-filled event offered a chance to learn about and embrace Latin American cultures.
The Latinx Kzoo Festival was organized by El Concilio, a non-profit organization that seeks to help promote and support Latino communities. El Concilio was formerly called the American Hispanic Council, but changed their name in 2017.
“We just wanted to bring everyone together,” said Celestine Robles, administrative coordinator for El Concilio. “And raise awareness that El Concilio is here and part of the community.”
The event featured vendors selling clothes, shoes, jewelry, accessories and more. Some stores sold items that were originally made in Latin American countries such as Mexico.
Some of the sellers even used their shop to help others. Hilda Hernandez decided to open La Boutique de Hilda after hearing stories of people who could not sell the items they made on the street and struggled to find money.
“My mom started this store to help people like that,” said Amy and Said León, Hilda’s children. “Taking the things they did and giving them the revenue back.”
There were also stalls offering authentic Latin American food and deserts. There was elote, which is roasted corn with mayo, cotija molido cheese, and tajine-like spices.
Some people set up a booth to show off the crafts they’ve made, like Samantha Ascencio, who is making a tablecloth that represents a timeline of her family’s history.
“It’s my way of connecting with my culture,” Ascencio said. “Reusing my family history and learning skills such as embroidery.”
Outside of the vendors, there were fun activities for everyone to participate in. There was a mechanical bull for people to ride and a bounce house for kids to jump on.
The event featured live performances from young and old Latin dancers to Zumba, which is a fitness program inspired by Latin dance. There was even a talent show for people to show off their skills.
Also on MLive:
Belle Isle’s giant water slide closes, hours after reopening, due to safety concerns
Gilmore unveils 2022-23 lineup highlighted by rising artists, world-renowned stars
18th Anniversary Back to the Bricks Powers Through the Rain with Extended Show
