Latinx House is set to host the Raizado festival, a vibrant celebration of music, fashion, and culture, in Aspen’s Rio Grande Park on August 27. The festival promises an array of exciting attractions, including musical performances by Los Lobos, a DJ, a fashion show, delectable food, and a sampling of spirits from Jennifer Lopez’s liquor brand. This free event is open to the entire community, making it a must-attend affair for residents of Aspen and the Roaring Fork Valley.
Before the festival kicks off, several days of guest speakers will take the stage to explore various topics such as Latino environmental activism and the cultural history of Latino cuisines. These informative sessions will provide valuable insight and knowledge to festival-goers.
Attendees can look forward to engaging activities and events throughout the festival. Diana Flores, Mexico’s flag-football global ambassador and World Games gold medalist, will conduct a flag-football clinic, offering participants the chance to learn from the best. A fashion show featuring talented Latino and Latina designers will showcase their incredible work. The lineup of events aims to bring together members of the community and celebrate the rich culture of the Latino community in a truly inclusive manner.
Renowned figures from the entertainment industry, including Mayor Torre, actress Paulina Chavez, and stars like Jesse Garcia and Kate del Castillo, will grace the festival with their presence. Their appearances will add a touch of glamour to the festivities and create unforgettable experiences for attendees.
Transportation to the festival will be made easier through the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority, which is providing free rides to Rio Grande Park. Local vendors will sell delicious eats, ensuring that hunger pangs won’t go unsatisfied. Additionally, the Beverage Garden will offer a selection of local beers and refreshing spritzes and spirits from Delola, founded by the iconic Jennifer Lopez herself. These beverages are infused with botanical flavors such as berries, passionfruit, and elderflower.
Children will have their own special area, the Lil’ Libros children’s book reading area, where they can enjoy storytelling sessions. This area is known for its collection of beautiful, colorful, and bilingual picture books that captivate young minds. Adults can also participate in a Book Chat with accomplished authors, catering to their literary interests.
Music enthusiasts can groove to the beats provided by a talented DJ throughout the festival. And to top off the festivities, there will be a captivating closing performance by Los Lobos, a band renowned for their enduring musical legacy spanning 50 years.
The community aspect of the festival extends to oral health awareness, as the Crest & Oral-B Oral Health Airstream will be present to provide resources and products related to oral care. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the importance of oral hygiene and cultivate healthy habits from an early age, particularly in light of the existing barriers to access.
Latinx House has chosen Aspen as the annual home for Raizado and intends to continue hosting the festival here for the foreseeable future. By bringing the festival to a location dominated by predominantly white leaders, the organizers aim to encourage cultural and thought-leadership conversations while promoting innovation, healthcare access, sustainability, and arts and culture.
The Raizado festival has garnered support from various partners, including Procter and Gamble, the Colorado Health Foundation, the Hispanic Restaurant Association, Theatre Aspen, Alpine Bank, Roaring Fork Transportation Authority, Explore Books, the Aspen Chamber Resort Association, and Habitat for Humanity. Their support ensures the success and vibrancy of the festival, enabling a celebration of Latino culture that resonates with the entire community.
In conclusion, the Raizado festival in Aspen promises an exciting blend of music, fashion, and cultural celebration. With a diverse lineup of attractions, this community-oriented event provides a platform for showcasing Latino talent and fostering connections between residents of Aspen and the surrounding areas. By choosing this location, Latinx House aims to initiate important conversations and celebrate the rich heritage of the Latino community.
