October 5, 2023

Office of Intercultural Development hosts first Latinx Fest (PHOTOS)

Three students hold international flags during Latinx Fest.
Latinx Fest was held Sept. 15 on the Quad and featured food, live music, and a mechanical bull.
A student spins a prize wheel during Latinx Fest hoping he wins a prize.
A student picks up a tote bag during LAtinx FEst
Students spin a prize wheel during Latinx Fest
A girl rides a mechanical bull during Latinx Fest
A girl rides a mechanical bull during Latinx Fest.
A singer performs during Latinx Fest.
A hand reaches into a box to grab a snack during Latinx Fest.
A hand reaches in to a box to grab a treat.
A barista hands out cups during Latinx Fest.
A little girl swings on the Quad during Latinx Fest.
A crowd of students fills the Quad during Latinx Fest
A boy rides the mechanical bull during Latinx Fest.
A girl plays the guitar during Latinx Fest.
A student plays a trumpet on the Quad.

By Kristen Vincent ’26

The Office of Intercultural Development hosted Latinx Fest Sept. 15 on the Quad to celebrate Latinx culture at the beginning of Latinx Heritage Month. Approximately 200 students enjoyed delicious food, live music, and even a ride on a mechanical bull while honoring Latin American culture. 

The idea for Latinx Fest first originated this past spring, when Hector Morales ’24, president of Hispanic Society of Lafayette (HSL), and Karina Fuentes, associate director of intercultural development, discussed new ways Lafayette’s community could celebrate Latinx Heritage Month.

From there, it was determined that various clubs and groups such as NIA, HSL, Bohio Association, and Association of Black Collegians (ABC) would be featured at the festival.

Additionally, students from Lehigh University, Moravian University, and DeSales University enjoyed the festivities offered at Latinx Fest.

“We noticed that there were people who did feel comfortable to attend this event, even though their identity does not pertain as part of Latinx,” Fuentes says.

Overall, Latinx Fest was a success that united various communities all in the name of honoring Latin American heritage.

“We’re very appreciative of everyone who attended, and we hope to do more stuff like this with all the underrepresented groups on campus,” Fuentes says.