Festival Latino in Columbus, Ohio – Exploring Columbus Ohio

Musica – Cultura – Fiesta

The Festival Latino in Columbus is one of the most colorful festivities of the year in our fine city! You’ll find vivacious music, high-spirited crowds, dancing in the streets, workshops in culture and art for the adults and kids! I wouldn’t dare forget to mention the awesome Latin American cuisine!

Dates: August 13-14, 2011
Location: Genoa Park, Downtown Columbus (Behind COSI)
Admission is Free.

Photo by Randall L. Schieber

The Festival Latino in Columbus started in 1996 as a way to provide the community with a chance to learn and experience contemporary and traditional culture through performances, visual arts, authentic cuisine and learning workshops.

It’s the largest Hispanic-Latino event in the state of Ohio. What started as a 5 hour project in 1996 is now a 2 day event!

Photo by Randall L. Schieber, Groupmania

Guests are encouraged to bring blankets for lawn seating. Coolers, chairs, tents, pets, and umbrellas are not permitted. For rain policies and additional rules, visit www.FestivalLatino.net.

Continuing the tradition, Festival Latino will bring the rich tastes and traditions of Latin America to Columbus. Festival-goers can dance to live music, taste authentic foods, shop the Marketplace for arts and crafts, and learn about health, education and employment opportunities available in the community.

Enjoy the authentic cuisine from Mexico, Colombia, Spain, Guatemala, Puerto Rico, Argentina, Venezuela, Dominican Republic, and El Salvador.
Relax and enjoy lunch while the local musicians fill the air with music.

Walking through the Marketplace, you’ll find handmade arts and crafts, pottery and much more.

Photo by Randall L. Schieber, Children’s Activities

The children’s area features activities for kids and families to do hands-on projects. Children can explore hands-on activities and create traditional Latin American crafts.

Employment and educational areas will be set up, as well as community and wellness areas. They feature bilingual information on opportunities available from various companies and organizations.

Photo by Randall L. Schieber, Young Traditional Dancers

Performances by traditional dancers are always a pleasure. The beautiful colors and costumes enhance the pure enjoyment of watching traditional dance. From adults to children, you won’t want to miss this. The dance competitions are not only fun, but what great dancing you’ll see there also.