While many screamed at the various twists and turns atop Great America’s roller coasters, others screamed at the sight of one of their favorite artists during the 21st Annual Fiesta Hispana.
The event took place on Aug. 12 and was hosted by La Raza 93.3 FM, a Spanish language radio station that plays regional Mexican music in the Bay Area.
Great America’s summer event kicked off with young performers showing off their singing and dancing abilities in front of the Carousel Columbia. One of the young singing talents was Alexis Sandoval, whose stage name is “El Patron” — the boss. At just eight years of age, the singer impressed guests with his renditions of traditional Mexican songs.
Guests also enjoyed performances by several groups of various ages dancing baile folklorico, traditional Mexican dances.
Of course, no Fiesta Hispana is complete without delicious food. To satisfy any hunger pains, food trucks selling Hispanic foods were scattered throughout the park.
Elotes, a popular Mexican street food, were sold at the entrance of Great America’s concert venue. On their way in, or even in between performances, guests lined up to buy the roasted corn treat brushed with mayonnaise, sprinkled with cotija cheese, and (for some) covered in hot sauce.
The concert at the end of every Fiesta Hispana is perhaps one of the most popular parts of the event every year. The concert is free with Great America admission.
This year, the doors to Great America’s concert venue, Redwood Amphitheatre, opened at 3 p.m. Despite the August heat, fans waited anxiously in line for several hours. Many fans brought posters with pictures and messages for their favorite singer, which they made sure to hold up during the performances.
The concert included performances by Adal Loreto, Virlan Garcia, Chiquis Rivera and Joss Favela.
One of the most highly anticipated performers was Chiquis Rivera who has made a name for herself in the Regional Mexican music community. Her mother, the late Jenni Rivera, is still one of the most recognized singers in this musical category. It was no surprise that fans were especially excited to watch Rivera take the stage.
Joss Favela was another highly anticipated performer. Fans swooned over his smooth voice as he sang his most popular songs. During one of his last songs of the evening, Favela jumped off stage to be closer to the audience. Thrilled fans quickly rushed towards him with their phones in hand ready to take a selfie.
La Raza hosts the Fiesta Hispana every year as well as other events throughout the Bay Area. For more information on upcoming events, visit their website: www.yosoyraza.lamusica.com/