The Cultural Affairs Committee is throwing a huge street party to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month this year.
On Oct. 10, people who want to get a taste of Latin America can enjoy the inaugural Sabor Fest.
“We have been doing Hispanic Heritage for 11 years and last year, we outgrew the indoor space,” Justin Trujillo said.
Trujillo, who chaired the subcommittee for the festival along with CAC member Geraldine Amandola, said that previously the committee would highlight one country.
This is the first year they are featuring multiple countries in a Calle Ocho-style festival.
“It keeps growing, and the main focus of doing events in Miami Lakes is to bring people [here] to get them to see what makes it so great to live here,” Trujillo said.
Sabor Fest will be held on the two lawns along Northwest 67th Avenue and Main Street in front of Chela’s Miami and the old La Strega location.
“We’re taking over both sides,” Trujillo said.
On the Chela’s side of the street there will be food vendors and artisanal sellers, along with a large main stage. On the opposite side will be a smaller stage for local groups to perform, as well as the individual country booths.
On the main stage, attendees will be able to see Los Hermanos Suca from Peru, Melissa Cruz y Melodia y Rumba doing Cuban style music, and Mexico en la Piel, a mariachi group.
A returning act from a previous celebration is Claudio Villagra and Helena Fernandez, who will dance tango again.
Along with the live performances, there will be an opportunity for kids to learn about the countries represented. Trujillo said that kids will be able to pick up and decorate a passport before heading off to learn at the booths representing nations.
“They can get [it] stamped and learn about the different countries,” Trujillo said.
Along with the passport experience there will also be activities from the Miami Children’s Museum, Zoo Miami and the Miami Marlins in the kid zone.
Artists from the respective countries will also display their work in the former La Strega location.
Along with music and art, there will be food from Chela’s Miami; Açaí Express; BBs Bakehouse; Sergios; Empandillas PR and Fritanga Nica Power. Other food providers will be announced.
Sponsors for the inaugural Sabor Fest are The Graham Companies; Headquarter Toyota; Zoo Miami; Miami Marlins; The Miami Children’s Museum; The Office of Commissioner René García; Miami Lakes Chamber of Commerce; Justin Trujillo Realtor; AT&T; Miami Lakes Bar Association; Miami Balloon Garden and MD Body Shop.
Sabor Fest will take place from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Oct. 10 on Main Street, 15301 NW 67th Ave. Free tickets are available at toml.eventbrite.com.