KEYPORT — The Spanish American Club will host its 17th annual Spanish American Festival, an event that celebrates Latin American culture with the entire community.
The festival will take place at the Keyport waterfront at the corner of Broad and First streets on Aug. 8 from 12 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. There is no rain date.
“Our festival is more like a giant family picnic where the whole family gets to participate. There are fun and games for young and old alike,” said Albert DeGracia, festival committee chairman.
According to a press release, the purpose of the Spanish American Festival is to bring people of all backgrounds together to celebrate the richness of Latino culture.
The event, which draws some 3,000 people each year, will showcase Latin American music and food, as well as music and games.
Live entertainment will feature performances by Atomic Band, Ray Rodriquez y su Swing Sabroso, DJ Lady C, and La Comai Buena de NJ.
There will also be multiple food vendors serving classic Latin American dishes such as rice and pork.
The event kicks off with the traditional raising of the Puerto Rican flag.
“All of Keyport and its neighbors always look forward to the annual Spanish American Festival. Besides all the wonderful culinary choices, there is music and dancing,” Borough Council President Joe Sheridan said.
At the festival, the club will award plaques to Hispanic students who have shown academic excellence. According to DeGracia, the club awards a $2,000 scholarship, the Hispanic Academic Leadership Award, as well as two $1,500 scholarships to the top Hispanic students at Keyport High School.
The Spanish American club has been active in Keyport for over 50 years, according to DeGracia.