STATE COLLEGE — The Happy Valley Latin Festival is returning to the MLK Plaza in downtown State College for a fourth year from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 14.
Guests from all over Happy Valley are invited to the Frasier Street plaza to dance, eat and celebrate at the annual festival featuring live music, dance performances and food from various Latin American regions.
“Whether you’re a fan of salsa or just want to learn about our traditions or just enjoy a good party, this festival is for everyone,” the State College Downtown Improvement District highlighted in a statement.
The event is free and open to the public and aims to celebrate diversity and culture with the community.
“Bring your friends and family for a day filled with joy, color, and community,” State College DID noted in its press release. “There will be live bands and DJs, dance performances and workshops, authentic Latin cuisine, arts and crafts, and so much more.”
Some of the vendors at this year’s festival include Folds and Stitches, Helen Velásquez Photography, Andean Treasures, Brazilian Munchies, The Cake Shop by Tati, Juana’s Cuisine, Happy Valley Slumber, Althia Artisan Jewelry, Valcardona Designer, the League of Women Voters of Centre County and Young Scholars of Central PA.
There will be performances at this year’s Happy Valley Latin Festival from the La Fiesta Band, Dance 4 Joy and Ady’s Latin Band.
The first Happy Valley Latin Festival took place in 2021 thanks to the efforts of Adianez “Ady” Martinez, who owns Juana’s Venezuelan Cuisine in downtown State College. Martinez, along with other members of the community, sought to bring Latino and Hispanic talents together in a festival.
After the success of the first festival in 2021, the nonprofit Latin Vibe was established. The organization aims to support the development of Hispanic leadership in the area by sponsoring, organizing and promoting community programs, activities and events that promote culture, arts, tradition and civic engagement.
