Community explores Hispanic culture at festival in Evans

Rosa Colon, of Evans, did not let rain wash away her annual tradition of stopping by the Hispanic Festival, which took place at Evans Towne Center this past weekend.

"It’s very important that my community continues to support our heritage because that’s part of who we are," said Colon, who is Puerto Rican. "We are very proud of our culture and we love when people from other countries learn about it."

For the past 27 years, the Asociación Cultural Hispanoamericana has hosted the three-day event, which includes music, food, live performances, giveaways, vendors and children’s activities. It is part of the nonprofit’s effort to promote Hispanic culture throughout the Central Savannah River Area, said president Juan Rodriguez.

"It’s a great feeling to see the band playing live music and the people dancing and everyone walking around and eating and enjoying the diversity," Rodriguez said. "You feel like you’re home for a few days."

Visitors could explore different Hispanic countries, but this year, the highlight was Mexico. K-Paz de la Sierra, a Mexican band, was the headliner Saturday night.

Although it has rained each year since the festival moved from Augusta in 2018, it has attracted more attendees and vendors, Rodriguez said.

"It’s a family atmosphere where people feel safe," he said. "It’s very important that we share our culture, especially with our kids but we also try to make it so everyone from any country feels welcome."