Over 350 visitors attended the 2016 Culture and Arts Festival, Dia de la Raza at the Karshner Museum and Center for Culture & Arts on Saturday, October 8, 2016. This family festival of Latino cultures included music, dance, and art activities all for free!

Dia de la Raza means “Day of the People” and is a celebration of the many cultures which make up Latino identities across the Americas. Visitors were immersed in the culture thanks to a great line-up of professional artists.

• Puyallup local, Julio Jáuregui performed with his salsa band, Tumbao. This five piece combo performed music firmly planted in Latin jazz exploring various dance beats with a Caribbean flavor. Montuno, Salsa, Chacha, and other Latin rhythms filled the great hall with lively dance music for everyone to enjoy. 
• Performing artist, dance instructor, and choreographer Vanessa Villalobos joined Salsa champion dancer Eduardo Aguirre in helping visitors feel the rhythm of the music and learn a few salsa dance steps. 

Families enjoyed the music and dance, and will also appreciated the teacher-led craft instruction for children. 

Visitors wishing to learn more about the history of Salsa dance viewed the PBS special Latino Music shown throughout the day in one of the museum galleries. 

Food vendor, Miami South Beach Cuisine and Espresso kept visitors fed and happy with their Cuban sandwiches and sides. Parked in front of the museum, the truck was busy with a line of customer all afternoon.

Pictures tell the story well. Take a few minutes to view the gallery.