SALSA to Celebrate Latin American Culture at Barrio Fiesta

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. –– Illinois Wesleyan University’s Spanish and Latino Student Association (SALSA) will host its 9th annual Barrio Fiesta on Saturday, Feb. 15, 2020 from 5 to 11 p.m. in the Hansen Student Center. This event is free and open to all current IWU students and prospective students who RSVP.

Barrio Fiesta is an annual event that celebrates the food, music and traditions of four countries in Latin America, showcasing the diverse cultures within the region. This year’s event will highlight Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Guatemala and Costa Rica. 

Dinner will be served from 5:30 to 7 p.m. From 7 to 8 p.m., there will be traditional dance performances from the highlighted countries, including the Bachata, Zapateado, and a Merengue and Cumbia dance combination. It will also feature a solo dance performer, a poem reading, and fashion show. There will be a special guest performance by a Folkloric Dance group from Peoria. After the performances, the rest of the night is open for dancing. 

SALSA is a registered student organization (RSO) dedicated to increasing awareness and emphasizing Latin American culture, achievement, and history. They provide a support network and promote unity within the Illinois Wesleyan Latin American community and with allies. SALSA meets weekly on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. in State Farm Hall 201.

By Megan Baker ’21