The second annual Hispanic Heritage Month Festival is Saturday in Risman Plaza and the Student Green from noon to 5 p.m.

The event will be fun and educational, said T. David Garcia, associate vice president for enrollment management and the chair of the Latino Networking Caucus, one of the sponsors of the event.

“There will be a lot of dancing, music and fun for families and students. It’s an event that suits the entire family,” he said.

The festival will include traditional Latin American food, vendors, information tables set up by campus organizations and music. A DJ will play music throughout the event and Grupo Chakai Manta, a band from Cleveland, will perform traditional Latin American music from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

There will also be various activities and contests throughout the day, including a jalapeño-eating contest and a piñata.

All students are welcome to come and learn more about Hispanic heritage.

“It’s an event I would like for all students, regardless of their background, to learn about Hispanic heritage and learn about the differences in Latino cultures,” Garcia said.

Sponsors for the event include the Latino Networking Caucus; the Spanish and Latino Student Association; The Kent State Colony of Phi Iota Alpha Fraternity, Inc.; Undergraduate Student Government; Enrollment Management and Student Affairs; Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and the Multicultural Center.

Contact Emily Mills at [email protected].