Viva Cape Coral
One of the largest Hispanic celebrations in the area will return to Cape Coral this weekend.
Viva Cape Coral! will take place Saturday from 5 to 10 p.m. on Southeast 47th Terrace, between Coronado Parkway and Southeast 10th Place. Hosted by the Southwest Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and The Pendas Law Firm, the annual festival features live music, food and vendors.
Veronica Culbertson, president of the chamber, explained that the event is held in September in recognition of National Hispanic Heritage Month. The month run Sept. 15 though Oct. 15.
“Basically, what we’re trying to do is bring all cultures together to have a great time,” she said.
Free and open to the public, the festival drew between 8,000 and 10,000 people last year.
“Hopefully, it’s larger,” Culbertson said of this year. “I’d like 10,000 to 12,000.”
“We have a couple of new artists that have songs on the radio,” she added.
The headlining acts are international artists MAFFiO, who is known for merengue, and Johnny Sky, who leans toward bachata. Sky will take the stage at about 8 p.m., followed by MAFFiO at 9 p.m.
“They have hits right now on the radio,” Culbertson said.
Performing earlier in the day is the local band Grupo Espali, specializing in salsa.
“It’s their third year with us,” she said. “They’re very popular throughout the community.”
Taking the stage for the first time this year is the El Chorro Band.
“They play Spanish rock, which is very popular with people,” Culbertson said.
Also performing at the festival is the group Arteaga y El Yen.
“They’ll play three reggaeton songs,” she said.
A new element to Viva Cape Coral! this year will be the War of the DJs.
“It’s getting more and more popular at events, so we decided to go ahead and try it out,” Culbertson said.
DJ Eric, DJ Lexx and DJ Sheldon will battle it out at the first-ever challenge.
The festival will also feature a children’s area, complete with games, activities and rides.
“Even though the parents and people are going to listen to the music, it’s for the whole family,” she said.
Locally-known Galacctin the Clown will be on hand to entertain the youth.
“He attracts a lot of kids,” Culbertson said.
Along with the music, attendees can enjoy food from several cultures.
“They’re going to have Cuban, Central American, Puerto Rican and more,” she said.
“A lot of Hispanic food,” Culbertson added.
Merchandise vendors will be set up, as well as businesses showcasing their products or services.
“Different companies in the community,” she said.
Pets are permitted, but no coolers are allowed.
Culbertson encouraged the community to come out and have a good time.
“It’s an opportunity to get to learn about other cultures and vice versa,” she said. “It helps connect everybody, and it’s so much fun.”
For more information on Viva Cape Coral!, contact the Southwest Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce at (239) 418-1441 or visit online the website online at: www.vivacapecoral.com.