Popular Latin Festival Will Return To Essex County: 2026 Summer Events

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Newark’s annual Latin Festival will return on Sunday, Aug. 16.

This year’s festivities will take place from noon to 10 p.m. on Bloomfield Avenue between Lake Street and Clifton Avenue.

Three celebrated Latin music artists will headline the 2026 festival: Manny Manuel, Las Voces de los Adolescentes and Silvio Mora. DJ Alex Sensation will also be on hand, bringing his signature energy to the event.

Together, the performers will bring a dynamic mix of salsa, merengue, and bolero to the Brick City, offering the community an afternoon and evening of live music, dancing and celebration of Latino culture.

Here’s what to know if you plan to go, event organizers said:

“Coolers and pets are not permitted during the event. Riding bikes or scooters is also prohibited on site, but attendees are encouraged to arrive and depart using the citywide, free ride share app via Newark and Newark Go, the city’s scooter and bike share program. The rented ebikes and scooters can be left on Clifton and Bloomfield Avenues, near the Latin Festival. There will be additional car parking in Branch Brook Park.”

City of Newark departments and agencies will also be on-site throughout the festival to engage with residents, provide information about municipal programs and services.

The event will also include community outreach for local families in need, organizers said:

“During the festival, OVPTR and BCPC will host a centralized, family-friendly space focused on providing information and resources related to violence prevention, crisis intervention, and trauma recovery. Festivalgoers will be able to access support services, receive referrals, and learn about safe pathways out of abusive relationships. Bilingual staff will also circulate throughout the event to distribute materials, answer questions, and connect individuals to real-time assistance in both English and Spanish.”

Vendors are being sought for the festival. Interested parties can contact Deputy Mayor Jacqueline Quiles-Mercado at the Office of Community Engagement at 973-733-4310.

“Every year, the Latino Festival showcases international stars and breathtaking local talent on our stage – and draws thousands of music lovers from the metropolitan area and beyond,” Quiles-Mercado said.

“Don’t miss this spectacular event when our Latino residents celebrate their vibrant cultural heritage and achievements, and our streets explode into a dance party!” she added.

Mayor Ras Baraka said Newark “welcomes, supports and values our Latino residents who live at the center of the city’s heart and soul, and are our pride and joy.”

“Our city is thriving for all of the reasons that bring record crowds to the festival each year: good people, good food, good music and good fun,” Baraka said.

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