Transform your cultural awareness at Seattle Center Festál: Seattle Fiestas Patrias, noon – 9 p.m. Saturday and noon – 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 15-16 at Seattle Center Armory, Fisher Pavilion and Seattle Center Pavillion. Seattle Fiestas Patrias observes Latin American independence in ways that remind us all of the indomitable spirit of freedom.
“Fiestas Patrias,” meaning “Patriotic Holidays” or “National Holidays” in Spanish, commemorates the independence of Latin American countries, many of which celebrate their national independence days in the month of September. The festival highlights the history of these communities while taking pride in the new generations of Latinos that now call the United States home, with live performances of dance and music, art, activities for the family and authentic dishes.
Appreciate two art exhibits: ¡VIVA! Latino/a Visions is a display by local Latinx artists and The Migration: A Look Through the Poster addresses the issue of migration and the human rights of people in this condition. Attend one of three hour-long cooking demonstrations of traditional Latin American dishes, sponsored by Cocina Oaxaca.
Enjoy dance and musical performances, which include Colombia Ruma y Folklore, Mariachi Huenachi, La Sonora Dinamita at Fisher Pavillion.
Explore the annual health fair with informational booths for vital health screenings, cholesterol and glucose checks, health education, oral health, WIC/MSS services, behavorial health, insurance enrollment, Sea Mar assisted living and nursing services, cancer prevention and hearing exams. Attendees at the health fair are entered to win prizes including a 32-inch flat screen TV.
Seattle Center Festál is a public program presented by Seattle Center in partnership with Sea Mar Community Health Centers. Admission is free-of-charge. For more information on this festival, visit seattlefiestaspatrias.org, and to learn more about this collection of ethnic cultural events and other Seattle Center public programming, visit www.seattlecenter.com or call 206-684-7200.