About This Festival
Fiesta Latina in Columbus, Bartholomew County, is a vibrant celebration of Latin American culture typically held in mid-September, with the 2025 event taking place on September 12 at Mill Race Park. The atmosphere is lively, colorful, and community-focused, inviting residents and visitors to enjoy music, dance, food, and cultural immersion in a family-friendly outdoor setting. The event is handicapped accessible.
The vibe emphasizes celebration and cultural appreciation, with authentic Latin American elements including Mariachi bands delivering live music and traditional dances showcasing Latin heritage. Attendees can explore numerous cultural booths and enjoy arts and crafts reflecting Latin American artistry.
Typical activities include:
- Live Performances: Authentic Mariachi music and traditional Latin dance performances.
- Cultural Booths: Displaying Latin American heritage, crafts, and educational materials.
- Food Vendors: Various Latin American cuisines offering flavorful, authentic dishes.
- Arts & Crafts: Opportunities to view and purchase handcrafted items from Latin artisans.
- Sports Activities: Soccer games engaging attendees in the spirit of community sport.
The event runs from the afternoon into the evening, around 5 PM to 10 PM, and is hosted at Mill Race Park, located at 50 Carl Miske Drive, Columbus, Indiana. Nearby, on the Friday before the main event, there is often an additional kickoff event or lunch in downtown Columbus, marking the beginning of the festival festivities.
Fiesta Latina was founded by Su Casa and Tu Futuro, organizations dedicated to celebrating and promoting the rich Latin culture in Bartholomew County and the surrounding area. Over the years, it has grown into an annual event that fosters diversity, cultural understanding, and community unity through arts, music, dance, and shared experiences.
The rough schedule on the main day includes:
- Early Evening (Around 5 PM): Opening of cultural booths and arts & crafts.
- Throughout the Evening: Live Mariachi performances and traditional dance shows.
- Food Vendors: Open from start to near close, serving Latin American dishes.
- Soccer Games and Interactive Activities: Scheduled intermittently during the event.
This structure ensures diverse activities that showcase Latin heritage, making it both educational and entertaining for all ages. The event is supported by community sponsors who emphasize inclusion and cultural celebration. For more detailed schedules or updates, the official website and local community centers provide event-specific information closer to the date.