The 9th annual LATINAFest, the nation's largest outdoor festival celebrating Latinas in the U.S., will take place on June 7, 2026, at Jesse Brewer Park in Exposition Park with the theme "UNSTOPPABLE," reflecting the significant growth, influence, and economic power of Latinas across the United States. From 2010 to 2022, the Latina population grew by 5.6 million—the largest numeric increase of any major female demographic group—and as of 2024 represents over 22.2 million women, making up 17% of all adult women in the U.S. and standing as the fastest-growing major female ethnic group in the country.
LATINAFest is rooted in the belief that culture is the new currency, with co-founder Bel Hernandez Castillo stating, "Latinas are not a trend—we are the future of growth. Marketing to Latinas should not be considered a DEI initiative by corporations, it is a strategy that is good for business." At the heart of the festival are its entrepreneurs, with over 100 exhibitors and vendors expected this year showcasing Latina-owned businesses that are fueling economic growth nationwide. According to Forbes, Latina founders are starting businesses at faster rates than any other demographic group in the U.S.
Co-founder Naibe Reynoso described LATINAFest as "more than a festival—it's a movement. We are creating a space where culture, commerce, and community come together to celebrate the power and impact of Latinas." The 2026 festival will feature keynote speaker Loriann Serna, celebrity event planner and founder of Wife of the Party, an opening ceremony with choreographer Stephanie Stevens, an author's panel with Reyna Grande and Julissa Arce, a panel titled "Breaking the Silence," live selling experiences powered by Viva Shop, morning Mayan yoga and wellness programming, art installations, musical performances, tequila and mezcal tastings at the Cocktail Garden, and a full day of shopping, food, salsa dance lessons, and cultural experiences for the entire family.
With an attendance of over 4,000 guests in 2025, LATINAFest anticipates even greater growth in 2026 as its influence continues to expand across communities and industries. The festival is supported by sponsors and partners including Angel City FC, Square, AARP, El Clasificado, LATINATION, Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses, NAFTA Distributors, Empowered With Gina, Rancho La Gloria, Amigas on Tour, Sazon Grip, and Melrose Bouquets. Community partners include NLBWA-LA and additional organizations dedicated to empowering Latina entrepreneurs and families.
As momentum builds, LATINAFest will host two major lead-up events: Taste of LATINAFest on May 16, 2026, in partnership with METRO, celebrating the opening of the D Line station at Wilshire Blvd. & Fairfax, and the LATINAFest 5K Fun Run on May 30, 2026, sponsored by Angel City. The festival occurs one week ahead of the global spotlight on Los Angeles for FIFA, positioning it as a powerful prelude to the city's international moment while demonstrating the unstoppable economic and cultural force of the Latina community.
