The 9th annual LATINAFest, the nation's largest outdoor festival celebrating Latinas, will take place on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at Jesse Brewer Park in Exposition Park. This year's theme, 'UNSTOPPABLE,' reflects the rapid growth and economic influence of Latinas, who represent over 22.2 million women in the U.S. as of 2024, making up 17% of all adult women and the fastest-growing major female ethnic group. The festival occurs one week ahead of the global spotlight on Los Angeles for FIFA, positioning LATINAFest as a powerful prelude to the city's international moment.
LATINAFest is rooted in the belief that 'Culture Is the New Currency.' Co-founder Bel Hernandez Castillo emphasized that marketing to Latinas is not a DEI initiative but a sound business strategy. The festival showcases over 100 exhibitors and vendors, highlighting Latina-owned businesses that are fueling economic growth nationwide. According to Forbes, Latina founders are starting businesses at faster rates than any other demographic group in the U.S., underscoring the innovation and resilience of this community.
The 2026 festival will feature a keynote address by Loriann Serna, celebrity event planner and founder of Wife of the Party, who has over 20 years of experience producing celebrations for Hollywood's biggest names. The opening ceremony will include acclaimed choreographer Stephanie Stevens, recently featured in Bad Bunny's halftime show, alongside youth soccer teams. An author's panel will feature award-winning novelist Reyna Grande, presenting her latest work 'Migrant Heart,' and Julissa Arce, author of 'My (Underground) American Dream.' A panel titled 'Breaking the Silence' will address long-held secrets and untold stories within the community.
Additional programming includes live selling experiences powered by Viva Shop, morning Mayan yoga and wellness activities with sound baths and 'limpia' rituals, art installations, musical performances, tequila and mezcal tastings in a cocktail garden, and a full day of shopping, food, salsa dance lessons, and cultural experiences for the entire family.
Building on attendance of over 4,000 guests in 2025, LATINAFest anticipates even greater growth in 2026. The festival is supported by sponsors including Angel City FC, Square, AARP, El Clasificado, LATINATION, Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses, NAFTA Distributors, Empowered With Gina, Rancho La Gloria, Amigas on Tour, Sazon Grip, and Melrose Bouquets. Community partners include NLBWA-LA and other organizations dedicated to empowering Latina entrepreneurs and families.
Two lead-up events will build momentum: Taste of LATINAFest on May 16, 2026, in partnership with METRO, celebrating the opening of the D Line station at Wilshire Blvd. & Fairfax; and the LATINAFest 5K Fun Run on May 30, 2026, sponsored by Angel City, promoting wellness and community connection.
