East Tennessee State University’s Language and Culture Resource Center will celebrate the connection between Latino and Appalachian communities during the ninth annual Corazón Latino Festival on Friday, April 6, from 4-10 p.m. in Founders Park.
The free festival will highlight the vibrant Latino culture with fun activities, live music, food and more. Entertainment includes the return of the “Running of the Bulls” with the Little City Roller Girls, live “Latingrass” music by Argentinian band Che Apalache, dance lessons with Bj Goliday, Zumba demonstrations and music by DJ Torrado. A variety of sweet and savory foods from Mexico, Honduras and Cuba will also be available.
Members of ETSU’s Hispanic American Student Community Alliance organization will offer child-friendly activities in the ChicoZone, such as face painting, sack races and coloring.
ETSU’s Department of Art and Design will showcase Latino roots and culture in the exhibit, “Pawned Quiceañera Jewelry” by Mexican-American artist Rosalie Lopez, at the Tipton Art Gallery, 126 Spring Street.
Quillen College of Medicine, Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy, the Johnson City Community Health Center, Ballad Health and others will provide awareness and prevention information regarding health issues, blood pressure and glucose screenings, and for healthy living and self-care management.
Festival attendees can also enjoy a trip across Latin American countries without leaving Johnson City. Cultural Ambassadors will guide visitors through the beauty and traditions of each country.
The Corazón Latino is made possible through partnerships with Northeast State Community College and the City of Johnson City. For more information, contact ETSU’s Language and Culture Resource Center at 423-439-8342 or lcrc@etsu.edu.