Explore Latin American Culture at Long Beach Public Library’s Eighth Annual Vida Latina Celebration
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Long Beach, CA ~ Long Beach, CA - The Long Beach Public Library (LBPL) is excited to announce its eighth annual Vida Latina series, a month-long celebration of the diverse and vibrant cultures of Latin American communities. From September 15th to October 31st, all 12 LBPL locations will offer free programs and activities for people of all ages.

The theme for this year's Vida Latina series is "Alumbra Tu Vida" which translates to "Light Up Your Life." This theme encourages everyone to discover something new that brings joy and light into their lives. Through various forms of art, music, storytelling, dance, and hands-on activities, the community is invited to come together and celebrate culture while making meaningful connections.

Mayor Rex Richardson expressed his support for the event by stating, "Celebrations like Vida Latina remind us that culture is something we experience together - it is shared through music, food, art, stories and traditions passed from one generation to the next." He also commended the Long Beach Public Library for creating opportunities for the community to learn from one another and celebrate what makes Long Beach such a welcoming city.

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Cathy De Leon, Director of the Department of Library, Arts and Culture said that "Alumbra Tu Vida" is an invitation to find joy in culture and community. She added that there is something for everyone at Vida Latina - whether it's learning a new dance or spending time with loved ones.

The festivities will kick off with "Una Tardeada con Boleros with Attitude" on Thursday, September 17th at Billie Jean King Main Library. The Los Angeles-based trio Boleros with Attitude will perform a lively mix of traditional Latin folk music, romantic boleros and original hip-hop. Their performance will blend music and storytelling to celebrate culture, creativity and community.

This year's Vida Latina series will also feature special guests and programs that offer the community opportunities to discover and explore new traditions. Some highlights include a visit from children's author and creator of Millennial Loteria, Mike Alfaro, who will be sharing his latest books at Billie Jean King Main Library on October 3rd. Bilingual storyteller Josue Cuentacuentos will also be sharing his energetic Selena Storytime at multiple branches.

Local dance instructors Christopher Sandoval and Jeanette Flores will lead "Baile Con Nosotros" workshops, including Mexican Regional Dance for children and Family Latin Dance. These programs are designed for participants of all abilities and will take place at various branches throughout the month.

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Acclaimed storyteller Olga Loya will bring her signature Day of the Dead performance and storytelling workshop to Harte Neighborhood Library as part of "Noche de Cuentos en Comunidad" on October 30th. The library will also be hosting a community altar every Friday in October where families and community members can participate in arts and crafts activities to create decorations for the altar or their own family altars.

The Vida Latina celebration will conclude with "La Gran Tardeada: Latin Idols with Selenamos" on October 16th at Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library. This event will feature a performance by Selena tribute band Selenamos, a children's Bad Bunny puppet show, a Latin idols costume contest, karaoke, arts and crafts, and more. Guests are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite Latin music icon or cultural figure for an evening of fun and celebration.

The Long Beach Public Library's Vida Latina series is made possible by the generous support of the Long Beach Public Library Foundation, the Port of Long Beach, and REFORMA - The National Association to Promote Library and Information Services to Latinos and the Spanish-Speaking. For a full schedule of events and more information about Vida Latina, visit the library's website or call 562.570.7500. Don't miss out on this exciting celebration of Latin American culture!

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