Fiesta Latina draws large crowd downtown

Mike Wolanin | The Republic Mariana Petraglia, from left, Wendolyn Jimenez, Nadia Herrera, Luz Elena Michel take a selfie during Fiesta Latina in downtown Columbus, Ind., Saturday, Oct. 1, 2022.

COLUMBUS, Ind. — Fiesta Latina had a picture-perfect afternoon and evening for the return of the annual festival, which brought thousands of visitors to downtown Columbus for the tastes and sounds of the Latino community.

The free admission gathering stretched from noon to 10 p.m. overall ”celebrating the rich culture of Latin America; showcasing Latino musicians, dancers, artisans, and chefs from around the region,” according to organizers’ promotional materials.

Proceeds from the event go to help Su Casa “serve its Latino community, so that all Latinos feel welcome and safe, with equal access to opportunities that encourage a sense of pride and belonging,” according to the website at sucasaindiana.org/fiesta-latina/.

Among the performers was Sabada, a group with Brazilian backgrounds. Ballet Folklorico Mosaicos performed and music took over the evening festivities, including a Mariachi band and then music from a DJ.

For more on this story, and more photos, see Monday’s Republic.