The Latin American community is a strong one in London – it is estimated that around 115,000 of the city’s residents have origins in countries like Colombia, Brazil, Venezuela, Argentina, Chile, Peru. The beauty of London is that it’s a melting pot of different communities, each with its own flavours and traditions – and those from South America are particularly colourful and vibrant ones. Unsurprisingly, Latin Americans of London love celebrating their roots, be it with music, food or other cultural events. Lots of happenings are planned for the coming spring and summer weeks, and here is our pick of the best.
Tropicalista Thames Boat Party – Saturday 10 June
The London Latin summer begins in early June with the Tropicalista Thames Boat Party. Taking place aboard the legendary Dutch Master, the river Thames’s largest party vessel, with the incredible London skyline as a backdrop, this is a night with amazing DJs bringing a soundtrack of Latin bangers, Brazilian Bounce, Hot Salsa, and Cumbia killers.
La Clave Fest – Saturday 17 June
La Clave is a celebration of Latin American and Spanish culture with music, dance, film, art, theatre, sport, food and drink, talks. The central venue is Hornsey Town Hall, plus many other events in local cafes, cinemas, art galleries and theatres.
Brighton Latin Festival – Saturday 24 June
This event takes place in Brighton, a vibrant coastal city only one hour away from London by train. The sunshine is almost guaranteed for this free, outdoor fest with the best of Latin foods, bands, dance performances, shows and workshops.
www.facebook.com/brightonlatinfestival
Comida Fest – 8+9 Jul (Greenwich) / 12+13 Aug (Tower Bridge) / 16+17 Sep (Putney)
A free event of Latin American street food, drinks and culture. The 2017 Summer Season comprises of three sets of events happening around London, all in amazing riverside locations. There will of course be music, and activities for the kids, too.
Hola! London – Saturday 22 July
The O2 is one of the biggest London venue, hosted in the famous Millenium Dome in Greenwich. For the first time, it will host a Latin America-inspired celebratory day of sounds, dancing and street food. Fans of Latin, tropical, salsa, urban and dance music can enjoy a full day of vibrant performances, all under one roof. Outside the arena, a food fair will take up residence from midday and fans will have the opportunity to enjoy free music stages and activities.
www.theo2.co.uk/events/detail/hola-london
Carnaval del Pueblo & Plaza Latina – Sunday 6th August
For the past 18 years, Carnaval del Pueblo has delivered exciting and diverse annual Carnavals. These large scale events invite Londoners to discover the Latin American cultural heritage in a truly authentic way. With some of the best Latin American food traders London has to offer, live music and performances throughout the day there really is something for everyone – and it’s all for free.