Summits Fiesta Latina Returns to Village Green on Sept. 18 with Live Music and Latin Food

Summit’s annual Fiesta Latina is back on Friday, Sept. 18, lighting up the Village Green with salsa, cumbia, and a splash of Latin‑fusion energy. The free celebration kicks off at 6:30 p.m. in the park at 356 Broad Street and dovetails with the city’s observance of National Hispanic Heritage Month.

The star of the evening is De Tierra Caliente, a Latin‑fusion band that blends rhythms from across the Americas. Their performance on the main stage is expected to draw residents and visitors who thrive on the energetic mix of salsa, cumbia, and other Latin styles.

Beyond the headline act, the festival offers a rotating lineup of dance performances that showcase the diversity of Latin dance traditions. Cultural demonstrations will let attendees try their hand at crafts, learn about musical instruments, and hear storytelling that reflects Hispanic heritage.

Food takes center stage, too. A line of Latin food trucks will populate the Village Green, serving tacos, empanadas, arepas, and other regional specialties. All stalls are free to access, giving guests a taste of Latin America’s culinary breadth.

The event is sponsored by Atlantic Health and St. John’s Lutheran Church, both of which have supported Fiesta Latina for several years, helping to fund programming and logistics. Community and cultural organizations that wish to host a table or become sponsors can contact David Guida at dguidajr@cityofsummit.org or call 908‑277‑2932.

Summit’s Department of Community Programs will oversee coordination. A full schedule and volunteer opportunities are posted on the department’s website at summitcommunityprograms.com, and the department can also be reached by phone at 908‑277‑2932.

Fiesta Latina is one of several community events that celebrate the city’s diverse population. Its timing aligns with Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, offering residents a chance to learn about and celebrate Hispanic culture.

The Village Green, a public park that serves as a gathering place for the city, has hosted the festival annually since its inception. Its open layout accommodates stages, food vendors, and interactive displays, making it an ideal venue for a multicultural celebration.

The event is free and open to all. Residents are encouraged to attend and experience the music, dance, and food that highlight the vibrant traditions of Hispanic communities.

For those interested in volunteering or sponsoring, contact information is provided above. The City of Summit looks forward to another successful Fiesta Latina that brings the community together in celebration of Latin culture.