About Us
Welcome to Fiesta DC – the ultimate celebration of Latino culture and heritage in the Washington Metropolitan Area!
Our mission is to contribute to the preservation, diffusion, and promotion of Latino culture and heritage in the vibrant DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia) area. For over 52 years, Fiesta DC has been a keystone event, bringing together the diverse Latino community to showcase our rich traditions, values, and contributions.
Taking place annually on the third Sunday in September, Fiesta DC is a lively and vibrant festival that commemorates the Latino cultural heritage and embraces the spirit of unity and diversity. Our festival has become a focal point for celebrating Hispanic heritage, making it one of the most significant and cherished cultural events in the region. The festival features a colorful Parade of the Nations, showcasing the diverse cultures and traditions of Latin American countries.
Fiesta DC is produced by Fiesta DC Inc, a non-profit corporation recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) organization in Washington, DC. We are committed to promoting cultural understanding and unity through our festival.
Mark your calendars for the 51st annual Fiesta DC festival, taking place on September 23rd and 24th, 2023, right in the heart of Washington, DC. The festival will span from Third Street to Seventh Street, surrounding the iconic Pennsylvania Avenue – America’s main street. On September 24th, join us for the exhilarating Parade of the Nations, which will march along Constitution Avenue, spanning from 7th Street to 14th Street.
Fiesta DC warmly welcomes you to join us in celebrating our vibrant heritage and embracing the power of cultural exchange. Through our festival, we aim to unite all nations, fostering the development of culture, folklore, tourism, and business relations within the Latino community.
Come and experience the essence of Fiesta DC – a joyous celebration of our rich Latino culture and a testament to the unity and strength of our community. We invite you to be a part of this extraordinary event and create lasting memories that embody the spirit of our heritage.
The annual event began as a Latino Festival in the 1970s and was held in the Mt. Pleasant neighborhood, which was home to a large Latino community. In 2012, the festival was moved to the more visible downtown location of Constitution and Pennsylvania Avenues.
Since its inception in the 70s, Fiesta DC has become a cherished tradition in our nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. Over the years, Fiesta DC has evolved into the largest Latino festival in the Washington Metropolitan Area, drawing thousands of attendees each day.
Fiesta DC was born out of a deep desire to celebrate and preserve Latino culture and heritage. It was founded as a platform to showcase the rich traditions, music, dance, and culinary delights that define the diverse Latino community in the region. From its humble beginnings, Fiesta DC has grown in scale and significance, becoming a beacon of cultural pride and unity.
Throughout its history, Fiesta DC has played a pivotal role in fostering cultural understanding and appreciation among different communities. It has provided a space for individuals of Latino descent to come together, honor their roots, and share their stories with others. The festival has become an important avenue for promoting dialogue, breaking down stereotypes, and building bridges between people of various backgrounds.
Over the years, Fiesta DC has witnessed remarkable moments and milestones. From lively street parades to captivating musical performances, the festival has consistently delivered unforgettable experiences. It has featured renowned artists, both local and international, who have graced the stage with their talent, captivating audiences with their vibrant performances.
As Fiesta DC continues to thrive, it remains committed to its mission of preserving, diffusing, and promoting Latino culture and heritage. The festival embraces the values of unity, diversity, and inclusivity, providing a platform for people of all ages to connect, learn, and celebrate.
With each passing year, Fiesta DC reaffirms its place as a cultural institution, strengthening the bonds of community and leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who attend. As we look to the future, Fiesta DC remains dedicated to its mission, striving to create an inclusive and vibrant space that showcases the beauty and richness of the Latino culture for generations to come.
In recent years, the Latino community in the District of Columbia has been the fastest-growing group, witnessing an impressive 28% increase in 2020 alone. Today, the Latino population in the district exceeds 70,000 individuals, comprising over 10% of the total population. This growth showcases the significant impact and presence of Latinos in the city.
However, Fiesta DC’s influence extends far beyond Washington, D.C. The festival’s reach encompasses the entire metropolitan region, which is home to over 900,000 Latinos. This diverse and vibrant audience eagerly anticipates the festival each year, seeking to celebrate their cultural heritage while enjoying top-tier entertainment and engaging with the broader Latino community.
Fiesta DC serves as a vital platform for the Latino population in the DMV area, providing a space for connection, celebration, and cultural exchange. The festival’s presence in the region is a testament to the rich diversity and contributions of Latinos in the local community and beyond.
The Latino population in the DMV (District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia) area is experiencing rapid growth, making it a vibrant and influential community. Fiesta DC, as the premier celebration of Latino heritage in the region, stands at the forefront of representing this dynamic population.
As Fiesta DC continues to grow and evolve, it remains committed to embracing and empowering the Latino population in the DMV area. The festival serves as a unifying force, fostering unity, resilience, and the celebration of Latino culture and heritage. Through its engaging programs, performances, and initiatives, Fiesta DC plays a crucial role in promoting inclusivity, cultural understanding, and community cohesion.
