Lexington Celebrates Hispanic Heritage at Annual Festival Latino Despite Weather Challenges

The city of Lexington celebrated Hispanic heritage and culture during its annual Festival Latino de Lexington on Saturday, November 9. Following the cancellation of the event due to severe weather from Hurricane Helene, the festival was condensed to a one-day affair held at the Masterson Station Park Fairgrounds.

The festival featured 11 tables, each representing different countries, enriching the community’s cultural landscape. Crystal Felima, an assistant professor at the University of Kentucky, represented Haiti at the event, showcasing books, photos, and art from her homeland. “It brings a really cultural dimension to this city,” Felima stated, emphasizing the importance of curiosity about other cultures.

Maria Ramirez, a long-time attendee, shared her excitement for the event, especially as it was her son Dylan Sharp‘s first festival as a police officer. Ramirez noted the growing Hispanic community in Lexington, saying, “Every year it gets a little bit bigger, the city has been embracing the Hispanic community more throughout the years.” Sharp echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of diverse representation within the police force.

The festival maintained its hallmark features of live music, dance, arts, and food vendors, as indicated by Yamel Patterson-Muñoz, treasurer of the Foundation of Latin American Culture and Arts (FLACA), which has organized the event for 22 years. “I was worried because Hispanics don’t tend to like the cold season that much… but the weather is just perfect,” Patterson-Muñoz expressed joy at the festival’s success, despite its shortened duration.

For the first time, the festival’s health fair occurred simultaneously with other events, offering attendees valuable health resources. Organizations including law firms, banks, and healthcare providers set up booths to provide information and free flu shots. Jalima Green and Maria Penalber from the Bluegrass Community Health Center emphasized the significance of reaching out to underserved communities, particularly the Latino population, which often faces health disparities.

Patterson-Muñoz summarized the festival’s essence, stating, “This is a day of celebration for the Hispanic community, [allowing attendees] to spend a day with family.” Despite unforeseen challenges, the Festival Latino de Lexington managed to bring the community together, showcasing the city’s vibrant Hispanic culture and fostering a greater understanding among its residents.