“It was born from two Hispanic employees who work and live in Fairfield who saw a need – a need that exists across the community, across the county,” said Carrie Mancuso, spokeswoman for Lane Public Library.
“They wanted to create a vibe that is lighthearted and fun. You’re learning something but having fun at the same time and listening to music.”
The idea for the bi-lingual festival began as a place for Latino families to gather and connect with others while having fun, said Abril Huerta, co-creator of the festival and library worker.
In the mid-90s Huerta’s mom immigrated to the United States with Huerta’s older sister.
“She’s had a long, difficult life. We wanted to do something beneficial for people like her,’’ said Huerta, a Fairfield High School graduate and resident.
“Authenticity is the biggest thing for us. This was created by Latinos to help make them feel like they were part of the community,” Huerta said.
“We were planning something small. As we outreached more people got involved and got excited. It grew and grew.”
This year’s festival features Latin-American food trucks including tacos, tamales, Brazilian sweets, Ecuadorian food and Caribbean selections. The Panaderia Las Mexicana bakery will also provide treats.
In the Kids’ Corner, The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and GE Aerospace are offering games, STEM – science technology, engineering and math – activities along with story times for children.
Lane Public Library will have book donation station. Fairfield’s firefighters will set up their Safety House and other departments will provide vehicles for the Touch-A-Truck activity.
Music will be provided at the amphitheater by Son del Caribe, 3:30 p.m.; Daglio, 5 p.m.; and the Dayton Salsa Project, 7 p.m.
“This is a place where you can have fun, listen to Hispanic music, eat the food that tastes like home and support small (Latino) businesses,’’ Huerta said.
“You can gather resources on citizenship, lawyers, English classes.”
Vendors include Latino crafters, businesses, non-profits and other agencies offering information, free health clinic, and other resources.
The festival and expo is also a place where non-Latinos can learn about the Hispanic culture, practice their language skills and have fun, Mancuso said.
“This is not just for Hispanics. There are many different cultures, countries being represented. It’s like having a passport to Latin America without leaving our community,” Mancuso said.
“Go from place to place, table to table at your own pace. This is a great place to come and practice your Spanish.”
T-shirts designed by Huerta for the festival are available for purchase at Unsung Salvage in Hamilton.
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