Latin American and Caribbean Festival

In 1979, during a regular workday at the Center for Latin American Studies (CLAS), Director Carmelo Mesa-Lago, Assistant to the Director June Belkin, and Assistant Director Shirley Kregar were discussing upcoming programming and asked a simple but powerful question: How can we promote greater cultural awareness of Latin American cultures in Pittsburgh while meaningfully involving Latin American communities in the region? Shirley Kregar proposed the idea of a Latin American Festival. While the concept began modestly, no one could have anticipated the scale, longevity, and regional impact the festival would ultimately achieve. Although Shirley originated the idea, Alan Adelman organized and implemented the first festival, establishing a foundation of core elements—many of which remain integral to the event today.

The Latin American and Caribbean Festival has experienced more than four decades of sustained success, with continuous growth in attendance, artistic quality, community participation, and media visibility. As Pittsburgh’s Latino and Hispanic populations have continued to expand, the festival has become one of the largest and most significant gatherings of Latin American and Latinx communities in Western Pennsylvania, drawing students, families, artists, and visitors from across the region.

The mission of the Latin American and Caribbean Festival is to showcase the diverse cultures of Latin America and the Caribbean in Pittsburgh while educating students and the broader public about the rich cultural, educational, and community resources available throughout the region. Through free and open access, the festival promotes inclusivity, cross-cultural understanding, and meaningful community engagement.