NEW ORLEANS (press release) – West Bank Hispanic Heritage Festival organizers announced the 2025 lineup of entertainers and vendors that will participate in this year’s event to bring a day of vibrant music, diverse culinary offerings and community celebrations to the University of Holy Cross (UHC) campus in Algiers on Oct. 18 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
This year’s festival, free and open to the public, will have offerings for everyone including a full lineup of music and dancing plus entertainment for adults and kids. From live performances to delicious food to a designated kids area, the festival is designed to honor Hispanic heritage in an inclusive environment where everyone is welcome and to highlight the multiple influences of Hispanic culture throughout our city’s residents.
“This festival not only highlights the University’s great academic opportunities, but also shares the richness and nuances of Hispanic cultures from many different countries through music, food, art, and education,” said Stephanie Davi McNeely, chair of the West Bank Hispanic Heritage Festival and the first lady of UHC. “We are looking forward to welcoming everyone to our fun, family-friendly gathering under the beautiful oaks of the UHC campus and hope attendees are able to discover something new about the Hispanic culture that plays such an important role in our community.”
Live entertainment will keep the crowd energized throughout the day, with performances on the Redmann Law Stage by:
- Batey Bayou Bomba y Plena Drum Group – Experience the vibrant rhythms of Puerto Rico with this dynamic drum ensemble that brings traditional bomba and plena to life.
- Rumba Buena – A high-energy band delivering the rich sounds of salsa and Latin jazz to keep the crowd dancing.
- Muevelo – Known for their infectious beats and lively stage presence, they’ll bring the party atmosphere to the festival.
- Ballet Folklórico – A stunning showcase of traditional Mexican folk dance with colorful costumes and powerful storytelling through movement.
- Damian Ch – Blending modern and traditional Hispanic music, this talented artist adds a soulful touch to the celebration.
Additionally, a diverse lineup of food vendors and food trucks will offer a taste of authentic Hispanic and local flavors. Festival-goers can indulge in dishes from:
- Food vendors: Sweet Treats Made with Love; Liquid Joy; Barracuda; Ro’s on the Go Italian Ice; Lili’s Delight; Antojitos Salvadoreños Sandy; Chubbies Fried Chicken; NOLA Crepes; Mimi’s Sweets & Treats; Luba’s Catering; Anita’s Catering; Mexi-Pops; Chilanga; Waska NOLA; Casmita Jasmyn; Life Gave Lemons Lemonade; Malkriados Kitchen; Mimas Peruvian Taste; Curramba la Bella; Que Pasta Nola; and Kona Ice of the Crescent City
The festival also will feature a range of other vendors offering everything from handcrafted goods to unique accessories. Notable vendors include Koa Co., Crochetxpat, Wild Art NOLA, U’Nicedecor Design, BBays Designs, Y & T Jewelry Store, Safari Smokes, Colette, Accesorios Yolis, Smart Mobile – Chocas Boutique, Magnolia Girls, LLC, and Dignity Memorial.
Organizers share that this year’s event is made possible through a partnership between the University of Holy Cross and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana.
“Events like the West Bank Hispanic Heritage Festival are vital to our mission of strengthening and empowering the Hispanic community in Louisiana,” said Mayra Pineda, president and CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana. “They not only celebrate the diversity and richness of our cultures, but also create opportunities to connect, collaborate, and highlight the important contributions of Hispanic businesses, leaders, and families to the region’s growth and success- something that we are proud to be a part of again this year.”
Event Details:
Date: Oct. 18
Location: University of Holy Cross, 4123 Woodland Drive, New Orleans, LA 70131
Time: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Attendees are encouraged to follow the festival’s Instagram page, @juntosnola, to stay up to date with announcements and developments leading up to the Oct. 18 event. Additional information is also available on the official festival website: https://uhcno.edu/calendar/hispanicheritagefestival.php.
