Bowling Green’s Hispanic community showcased what it has to offer over the weekend, as people enjoyed food and music at the BG Fiestaval.
The Fiestaval, which began nine years ago, is a Biannual event held in May and September. Dances inspired by Aztec tradition, music, piñatas and plenty of food welcomed people of all ages from Sept. 12-14 on Clay Street.
Warren County trails only Jefferson and Fayette counties in Hispanic population, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
On a hot September weekend, people of all cultures showed out.
Many of the Fiestaval’s attendees were families with young children, and many of the attractions aimed to entertain kids. Piñatas, train rides and a photo op with Bluey, a popular cartoon dog, were some of the many opportunities for children.
Jaiden Thomas, a Bowling Green resident, said he came out to the festival to be with his family. His favorite thing about the Fiestaval is “being exposed to new cultures.”
Adults took part in entertainment and activities as well. On the hour, every hour, a new event was held on the main stage at the front of the venue. Live music and dance took the stage, offering attendees a chance to witness interpretations of Aztec traditions and performances of more contemporary Hispanic music.
Naomi Leyva has volunteered for the BG Fiestaval since its inception. The Fiestaval happens twice a year, in May and September, and she hasn’t missed one yet.
“I’m a very social person,” Leyva said, “I love getting to know my neighbor who lives next to me. I want them to count on me.”
Leyva said her favorite part of the Fiestaval was the food, especially the aguas frescas, or fruit waters.
“It’s just so hot right now, they’re so refreshing,” Leyva said.
Bowling Green native Anna Chavez said it was her first time attending the Fiestaval, and her favorite part was the music. Chavez said she listens to a lot of Latino music with her family at home.
Chavez said she believes the strength and size of Bowling Green’s Hispanic community were shown by the event, and she’ll be back in May.
