Salsa Fest, a daylong celebration of Latin music, dancing, food, and local vendors hosted by LMU’s Radio’s KXLU-FM, returns to Loyola Marymount University in its seventh year during Latinx Heritage Month. The free event is from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 13, 2024.
Salsa Fest VII comes as LMU Radio’s KXLU 88.9 FM marks 51 years of its popular “Alma del Barrio” show, started by then-LMU students Enrique “Kiki” Soto and the late Raul Villa in fall 1973.
The celebration will include special recognitions honoring long-running world music programs at LMU Radio’s KXLU-FM, including “The Brazilian Hour,” “Serenata de Trios,” and “Groove Time.” Also being recognized is “Alma” alumnus DJ and author Alan Geik. A posthumous recognition of longtime Los Angeles salsa band leader Freddie Crespo of Costazul will take place.
“Salsa Fest returns this fall with the continued goal of bridging culture, music, and community connections across generations,” said Lydia Ammossow, who directs LMU Radio’s KXLU-FM operations. “We will celebrate Latin music and recognize our companion world music programs at KXLU and community members that have elevated the collective vibration on our airwaves.”
Guests will enjoy “Alma del Barrio” D.J. sets, and featured performances spotlighting different sound influences, including Silvia Nicolatto & Friends (samba); Invasion Latina (salsa, merengue, bachata, cumbia); and Conjunto Afro Son (New York salsa). The headliner Yari Moré Latin Band (contemporary salsa) performs from 4:30 to 5:45 p.m.
Family friendly and open to the community, Salsa Fest VII runs from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. in LMU’s Lawton Plaza, 1 LMU Drive, Los Angeles, 90045.
Listen to “Alma del Barrio” at 88.9 FM in Los Angeles, and online at www.kxlu.com, or by downloading the free LMU Radio KXLU smartphone app. See the full list LMU’s Latinx Heritage Month events.
Salsa Fest VII Schedule of Performances
11 a.m. “Alma del Barrio” DJ set
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.: Band No. 1, Silvia Nicolatto & Friends (samba)
12:30 to 1 p.m. “Alma del Barrio” DJ set
1 to 2:15 p.m. Band No. 2, Invasion Latina (salsa, merengue, bachata, cumbia)
2:15 to 2:45 p.m. “Alma del Barrio” DJ set
2:45 to 4 p.m. Band No. 3, Conjunto Afro Son (New York salsa)
4 to 4:30 p.m. “Alma del Barrio” DJ set
4:30 to 5:45 p.m. Band No. 4/Headliner, Yari Moré (contemporary salsa)
