Quarter Century of Color: Scenes from HoLa Festival’s 25th Anniversary

Did you know from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15th is Latin American and Hispanic Heritage month? It was established as National Hispanic Heritage week back in 1968 and expanded to National Hispanic Heritage month (Mes Nacional de la Herencia Hispana) in 1988. This annual event recognizes the contributions and influences of Hispanic culture to our nation’s achievements, culture and history.

Last weekend I had the privilege to photograph the largest arts and culture festival in Tennessee that celebrates Latin American and Hispanic Heritage month, Knoxville’s own HoLa Festival. This celebration is presented by HoLa Hora Latina, the oldest grassroots Latino non-profit organization in East Tennessee. Its mission is to “promote unity in the community by creating bridges between the Hispanic/LatinX communities and the community at large through art, culture, education and leadership.”

This year’s event was the 25th anniversary of the HoLa Festival, and it was a large two day-celebration held at World’s Fair Park. Saturday started off sunny, but by the time the fireworks started at 9 p.m., the rain had begun to fall. It did not slow down the party at all. With music by Melvin Macias’ Sunrise Latin Band and Jimmy Bonilla and his Orchestra, the singing and dancing continued into the night.

Sunday was warm and sunny, with a nice breeze. It was a beautiful day for a festival. There were numerous arts and crafts vendors, as well as delicious authentic food vendors. With two stages of entertainment, there was always something to see, hear and do. There were several dance groups performing, including salsa, traditional folk, an Aztec dance group and more. They were all high-energy and dressed in beautiful, colorful outfits. With more bands playing throughout the day, and an awesome Parade of Nations in the afternoon, it was a fun-filled day celebrating and learning about Hispanic and Latino history and culture.