SecondannualLatin Multicultural Festival comes to Willimantic this weekend

Jul. 11—New Britain's Bomba Ashe is set to perform alongside others like Carlos Javier, Crespo, Salsa Dinamica and Choco Band.

There will also be a domino tournament with a $1,000 prize, split among competitors based on ranking, according to Windham Director of Economic and Community Development James V. Bellano. The tournament will feature 15 tables, with four people per table. Up to 60 people can register.

Last year's event had around 6,000 guests in total, according to Bellano. This year will differ from last year by having more vendors, including those in the healthcare industry, legal services and military. Event organizer Xiomara Bruder said in the release that success of last year's event and positive feedback organizers received were major factors in the decision to bring the event back.

"The vibrant and diverse Latin community in the neighborhood played a crucial role in the festival's continuation," Bruder said. "Building upon the community's rich history and traditions, the festival now fosters unity, pride, and mutual understanding among various Latin cultures."

Connecticut celebrates Latin culture throughout the state. Each year, cities and towns host Puerto Rican Day parades and festivals. For the first time, The Colombian Hot Dog, a Colombian food truck, will celebrate Colombia's Independence Day with a block party on July 22 in Hartford.