Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1525586
There are over a million Hispanic Georgians, and here in Central Georgia, we celebrate our over 22,000 Hispanic citizens' many different traditions, foods, music, and cultures in a big way each fall with different festivals including: Warner Robins' International City Experience Sat., Sept. 7, 2024, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. | Perkins Park Immerse yourself in a world of diversity as we showcase the rich tapestry of cultures that make our community so special. There will be live music, food trucks with flavors from around the world, traditional dances, family-friendly games, and so much more! Macon-Bibb Hispanic Festival Sat., Sept. 21, 2024, 1 – 7 p.m. | Carolyn Crayton Park Enjoy live music, delicious food from Hispanic-owned businesses across Central Georgia, vendors, kid-friendly activities, and so much more as Macon-Bibb County celebrates the Hispanic culture. Perry International Festival Sat., Sept. 28, 2024 | Historic Downtown Perry Cultures come together in historic downtown Perry through dance, song, food, shopping, and art! The mission of the Perry International Festival is to promote the preservation of heritage and tradition through cultural education and entertainment. More than 25 countries are represented at this event, including Hispanic countries. Middle Georgia Annual Hispanic Month Celebration Sun., Sept. 29, 2024 , 11:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Smiley's Flea Market With food, live music, dancing, entertainment, and fun for the whole family, the flea market comes alive with the sounds and flavors of the Latin world. Benjamin Perez – Owner, Dapper Cuts Barbershop (Mexico) "This is an important month to reflect on our Hispanic customs, remember where we came from, and feel proud of the diversity we represent. Plus, it helps generate awareness and acceptance that Latinos are part of this nation, just like other races." Laura Gómez – Road Safety and Sustainable Mobility Expert (Colombia) "Celebrating Hispanic heritage in the United States is very important because it reminds us that this is a country of migrants and thanks to that diversity, it's a great power today. America's diversity is its greatest power. Commemorating the contribution of those of us who come from Spanish-speaking countries makes us feel very proud." Local festivals August/September 2024 | maconmagazine.com 47 Elizabeth Almena – Chief Operating Officer, NotiVisión Georgia (Dominican Republic) "Hispanic Heritage Month is a chance to reconnect with my culture, especially since I have limited family in the US and haven't been able to travel back to my country. It gives me a small piece of home as we celebrate and connect with the diverse cultures that Hispanic Heritage Month encompasses. Celebrating our cultures is crucial to continue the traditions and customs from our ancestors and to keep them alive." Moisés Vélez – Founder and publisher of Que Pasa, Macon's first Spanish-language newspaper, Owner of Estas son Las Noticias newscast (Puerto Rico) "It's important to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month because so many Hispanics call Middle Georgia home."