Washington, D.C., is a vibrant city that celebrates cultural diversity throughout the year, and the Latino community plays a key role in this richness with festivals.
The following are some of the most emblematic festivals and events that highlight Latino heritage and traditions in the U.S. capital.
1. DC Party
Considered the largest Latino festival in the country, Fiesta DC is an annual celebration that attracts thousands of attendees. The event offers an immersion into the sights, sounds and flavors of Latin America, with authentic culinary delights, artisanal art and live performances that reflect the energy of Latin music and dance.
In 2024, Fiesta DC made history by achieving a Guinness World Record with the “Mega Pupusa,” thanks to the support of the Washington, D.C. community.
2. Colombian International Festival of Washington DC
Organized by Go Colombia LLC, this annual festival is the premier Colombian cultural event in Washington, D.C., attracting more than 5,000 attendees each year.
The festival is a good opportunity to strengthen ties within the Hispanic community
The festival celebrates Colombian culture, art, cuisine, music and folklore, and seeks to unite the Colombian diaspora and the Latino community in general, giving them a sense of home and belonging.
GALA hispanic theatre
Founded in 1976, GALA Hispanic Theatre is dedicated to preserving and promoting Hispanic culture through the performing arts.
Located in the historic Tivoli Theater in the Columbia Heights neighborhood, GALA presents plays in Spanish and English, as well as dance, music, poetry and film that reflect the diversity of Latino experiences.
The theater has been recognized for its commitment to gender equality, having received the 50/50 Applause Award in 2015 for having more than 50% of its plays written by female playwrights.
4. Moon Theater
Established in 1991 in Arlington, Virginia, Teatro de La Luna aims to preserve Hispanic heritage through international Hispanic theater festivals, Latino film festivals and cultural events that enrich the region’s arts scene.
Its programming includes a variety of productions that highlight the richness of Latino culture and foster cross-cultural understanding.
WorldPride DC 2025
From May 17 to June 8, 2025, Washington, D.C., will host WorldPride, a global event celebrating diversity, equality and love.
In partnership with Capital Pride, the city expects to welcome millions of visitors to participate in parades, concerts, human rights conferences and sports festivals that highlight inclusion and cultural diversity.
6. Smithsonian Folklife Festival
This annual festival, organized by the Smithsonian Folklife and Heritage Center, celebrates diverse cultural traditions from around the world, including Latin America.
The festival features live music, dance, crafts and traditional cuisine, providing a platform for Latino communities to share their heritage with a broad audience.
7. Musical events and concerts
Washington, D.C., offers a wide range of concerts and musical events highlighting Latino artists.
For example, in March 2025, Argentine singer Nathy Peluso will perform at the 9:30 Club, giving attendees the opportunity to enjoy her unique fusion of musical styles.
8. Community and social events
In addition to festivals and theatrical events, the city hosts a variety of activities that celebrate Latino culture, such as dance nights, salsa and bachata classes, and professional gatherings that strengthen the community.
Platforms such as Eventbrite provide up-to-date listings for these events in the Washington, D.C. area.
The cultural richness of Washington, D.C., is enriched by the vibrant Latino community and its numerous celebrations throughout the year.
From massive festivals to intimate theatrical productions, the capital city offers a wide range of events that allow residents and visitors to experience and appreciate Latino diversity and heritage in all its forms.
Find out more at QueOnnda.com.
