Maria Villavicencio said she had the idea for Tally Fiesta three years ago and, with the help of a committee of Hispanic leaders and volunteers, hopes to have more than the 3,000 participants she had last year.
“Our first year, all food vendors ran out of food, and our business vendors made profit,” Villavicencio said. “We have a lot of community support this year, and vendors are calling from all over, thus making us very excited for this year’s event.”
Participants can expect to enjoy local vendors, music, food, live entertainment and festivities. Last year, there were performances by Latin Soul, Corazon and El Zaguan.
“We are stepping it up a notch with a kid zone, bounce houses, educational material and decorations,” Villavicencio said.
Some Florida A&M students are also excited about this year’s fiesta.
“I was unable to attend last year’s event, but I’m looking forward to this year,” said Tooprecious Crayton, a fourth-year health care management student from Orlando.
Villavicencio said Tally Fiesta is a celebration of all Hispanic and Latino cultures that promotes cultural diversity, awareness, education, community and leadership through the displays of vendors.
“I think Tally Fiesta is needed to make sure we recognize and celebrate Hispanic culture,” said Beatrice Mounier, a fourth-year criminal justice student from Kissimmee, Fla. “I don’t think the Hispanic population is catered to enough.”
Admission is free, and participants can expect many types of food trucks, organizations and small businesses geared toward the Hispanic population and minority-owned businesses.
The vendor with the best decor and cultural spirit will be recognized and receive a prize.
For more information, contact Fiesta Chairwoman Villavicencio at 850-980-0844. by email at tallyfiesta@gmail com or visit www.tallyfiesta.com.