New Latin American Festival comes to Chicago

Organizers from Accion Latino announced the 1^st Inaugural National Latin American Festival to take place August 31 – September 2, 2013 in Riis Park, (6100 W. Fullerton) Chicago.

 “Over the past decades, Chicago’s Latino community has experienced unbelievable growth and prosperity… An astounding 35 Latin American countries are represented here in the Chicagoland area and they have made their presence felt with through their businesses, families, and communities…it’s important to us to celebrate these nations and unite them in the National Latin American Festival,” according to  Festival Organizers

 “A more diverse Latino population is ready to showcase their heritage and contributions to society. I am honored to be able to bring this amazing event to Chicago” says Hector Hernandez, President, Acción Latino.

The National Latin American Festival will include Latin American cuisine, Artisan booths, Countries Represented by: Tourist Bureaus, Consulates, and Cultural Organizations.  Entertainment will be provided on all three days of the event with Live Musical Performances representing over 23 Latin American countries, Live Folkloric and Traditional Dance Troupes, Presentation of dignitaries from Latin America.

Special consideration was given in planning to the family value system that is the core of every Latin American home. The Kid’s Korner will have Interactive Play Area, Chicago Fire mini soccer field with key players and mascot, Cultural workshops for kids, Clowns, face painting, balloon artist, and Child ID Program.  Another pavilion is designated for the leaders of our cultural heritage, Senior Citizens.

Community focus rounds out the National Latin American Festival.  The Community Sector of the festival will feature an Immigration Information Center (Full blown tent areas sponsored by immigration law offices), a Community housing & resource center, and an Education recruitment center (Colleges & Charter Schools).

 “Hispanics account for nearly thirty percent of the population in Chicago. It was time that the National Latin American Festival was brought to Chicago and I am honored to be the person to spearhead it as the Festival Director”, Mickey Mantilla, Executive Vice President, Acción Latino.

The National Latin American Festival will be an annual celebration hosted by National Latin American Festival, LLC (NLAF) and Acción Latino Inc. The festival is supported by the Chicago Teamsters Hispanic Caucus as well as The International Brotherhood of Teamsters Joint Council 25, Teamsters Local 700  and key Latino stakeholders throughout the Chicagoland area.  Sponsorship and Vendor opportunities are still available for more information, call 773.237.9300 or visit www.nationallatinamericanfestival.com