UMHB Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month With Latino Fest and Special Musical Concert

BELTON, Texas- In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor's (UMHB) 10^th Annual Latino Fest is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 19, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Luther Memorial on the UMHB campus. The Fiesta en la Calle event is hosted by UMHB Kingdom Diversity and Hispanic Student Association (HSA).

"This year is extremely special because we have reached a milestone that marks a decade of celebrating our Hispanic and Latin heritage on campus," said Dr. Sanfrená Britt, Director of UMHB Kingdom Diversity. "Is there anything better than having a party in the street to bring our community at large to our university to say we see you, we embrace you, and we love you? I dare say, 'Nada, nunca, nadie mejor!'"

The Fiesta en la Calle begins at 5:30 p.m. on the lawn at Luther Memorial. It will include a parade of flags, dancing, food, games, face painting, piñatas, soccer demonstrations, an art show, worship, a poetry reading, and photo opportunities. The event will also feature special performances by Guzman Ballet Folklorico and Tierra Mestiza. To learn more, follow @kingdom_diversity_ on Instagram.

"The 10^th Annual Latino Fest highlights the history, the diversity, and the unique heritage of the Hispanic community. It is an opportunity to reflect on our past, honor our ancestors, and embrace our cultural identity with pride," said Dr. Karla Gonzalez, UMHB Spanish professor and HSA sponsor. "Let's celebrate with a Fiesta full of color and lively music!"

The following week, the UMHB Wind Ensemble and HSA will host a special Fiesta Musical event that showcases music by renowned composers such as Astor Piazzolla, Rafael Hernandez, and Arturo Marquez, on Friday, Sept. 26, at 7 p.m. in the Sue & Frank Mayborn Performing Arts Center. The concert will feature notable guest composer Michele Fernandez from South Florida, who will conduct three of her original compositions.

"Hispanic and Latin musical styles play an important part in our American musical heritage," said Michael Garasi, director of the UMHB Wind Ensemble. "The UMHB Wind Ensemble is excited to share this beautiful cultural music with our community."

The concert is free, but tickets are required for entry. To secure your complimentary ticket, contact the box office at 254-295-5999 or visit https://www.umhb.edu/pac.