Macon-Bibb Hispanic Festival Draws Hundreds to Cherry Street Plaza
Hundreds of people filled Cherry Street Plaza in Macon on Saturday, October 24, for the 5th Annual Macon-Bibb Hispanic Festival, which county officials called the biggest in the event’s history.
The free, family-friendly festival ran through the afternoon with live music, dancing, food, shopping and a celebration of Hispanic culture and heritage.
Music, dance and more than 70 vendors
Cielito Lindo Ballet Folklórico and Son Latino performed on stage. A dance lesson gave attendees a chance to try new steps themselves.
More than 70 vendors set up at the plaza. They included Hispanic-owned businesses, makers of handmade goods, sellers of cultural products and community organizations. Hispanic-owned food trucks served dishes from across Latin America.
A Kids Zone offered activities and games for children.
“One of the things that makes Macon-Bibb so special is the diversity of the people who call our community home,” said Mayor Lester Miller. “Seeing hundreds of people come together to celebrate Hispanic culture and support local businesses is something we can all be proud of. This festival continues to grow each year, and that’s a reflection of the hard work of its organizers and the support of our community.”
Diversity Awards
The Macon-Bibb Hispanic Festival Committee presented two Diversity Awards to community members who have made a lasting impact in Macon-Bibb.
Jorge Villareal, owner of El Carnaval Latin Food Store & Taqueria on Pio Nono Avenue, received recognition for his longtime contributions to Macon’s Hispanic community. Since the store opened in 2001, it has helped connect families to their roots through products and flavors from across Latin America.
Susannah Maddux, owner of Macon Magazine, also received an award for her work sharing the stories of the community’s diverse residents. The county said her reporting has highlighted the people, cultures and experiences that make Macon special.
After-party at Hotel Forty Five
The celebration moved to Hightales Rooftop Bar at Hotel Forty Five after the festival ended. Macon Latin Connections led dance lessons, and DJ Brooks played music.
The festival is now in its fifth year. The county credited the Macon-Bibb Hispanic Festival Committee, dozens of volunteers, sponsors, vendors, performers and community partners for putting it on.
Día de los Muertos brunch November 1
The Hispanic Festival is teaming up with Switch Macon for a Día de los Muertos Brunch on Sunday, November 1. Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a Mexican tradition that honors and remembers loved ones who have died. Rather than a day of mourning, it is a colorful celebration of life with music, food, memories and traditions.
DJ Carlos Flores will provide music. Guests can bring a photo of a loved one to add to an altar honoring those who have died.
The brunch has a $5 cover charge, and reservations are required.
