In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 to October 15), the City of Frankfort is proud to celebrate Hispanic culture with a free, family-friendly outdoor Hispanic Heritage Festival on Saturday, October 5, at Veterans Park, located at 2 West Washington Street, from 4-10 p.m.
This event will feature live musical performances by three local bands, comedian Pastelito y Diamantina, and a dance performance by Ballet Folklorico Mosaicos. Hispanic Heritage information will be presented by local students providing history and information about several countries, including Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Honduras. There will be an “El Grito” (Mexican Yelling) competition as well. This event will include food, merchandise, and information provided by local vendors.
“This festival is a wonderful opportunity to highlight the influence of Hispanic heritage in Frankfort and bring the community together to celebrate our rich diversity,” said Annie Bacon, Community Development Director for the city of Frankfort. “As a city, we value opportunities to learn more about our citizens, grow in understanding, and remember that all of us have a history and heritage worth celebrating.”
Students at Frankfort High School were asked to participate in an essay contest, writing their thoughts on the benefits of being part of a multicultural community. More than twenty students submitted essays. The first, second, and third place winners will be awarded a cash prize at the festival. Frankfort elementary and middle school students are participating in the festival as well. Teachers in each school were invited to have students create artwork to be displayed in the stores of downtown merchants. A list of artwork locations will be printed in the festival program.
Tickets are free and are intended to promote sponsors and provide festival organizers with an approximate head-count to aid in preparations for next year’s festival. Tickets can be obtained at Frankfort Parks Department, Old Stoney City Building, and the Learning Network of Clinton County.
The festival is being sponsored by The Farmers Bank, MacDougall Pierce Construction, Fuego Frio, Zachary Confections, Garcia Insurance, Del Real Automotive Group, Frankfort Lions Club, Psi Iota Xi, and New Image Creative Group. Several local groups participated in organizing this event including Purdue Extension, Learning Network of Clinton County, Frankfort Main Street, Frankfort Community Public Library, Frankfort Parks Department, and the City of Frankfort.