By HOY en Delaware
WILMINGTON, Del. — HOY en Delaware newspaper is proud to announce the 9th annual Hispanic Heritage Festival, taking place on September 20, 2026, from 12 p.m. to 5 p. m. at Bellevue State Park. This highly anticipated, family-friendly cultural celebration invites the entire community to explore and honor the rich traditions of Hispanic culture through live music, authentic food, children’s activities, and traditional dance performances. Held rain or shine, admission to the festival is free, and free parking is available on-site.
This year’s festival carries double the significance as it marks the 30th anniversary of HOY en Delaware. Founded by Jose Somalo in 1996, the newspaper has served three decades as a vital voice and trusted cultural bridge for the region’s Hispanic community. The 9th Hispanic Heritage Festival serves as a vibrant, living extension of that media legacy, bringing the pages of the community to life in an energetic, welcoming environment.
A Celebration of Art, Artisans, and Female Creators
The Hispanic Heritage Festival consistently attracts hundreds of regional visitors. Longtime attendees regularly return to reconnect with their favorite creators, while newcomers flock to the park to discover emerging talent.
For 2026, the festival organization team has put a special emphasis on expanding and diversifying the arts and crafts showcase. Visitors will find a curated selection of unique works crafted by talented women artisans from across the Mid-Atlantic states. This year’s showcase puts a spotlight on spectacular handmade jewelry makers and innovative fabric artists. This expanded focus provides an excellent opportunity for attendees to jumpstart their holiday shopping early or find unique, handcrafted pieces for home redecorating.
Authentic Flavors and Family Fun
Food is at the heart of Hispanic culture, and this year’s event steps up the culinary experience with an array of delicious, street-style Latin food. Vendors will serve up regional specialties, offering a true taste of traditional flavors that span across Latin America.
While parents shop and savor the food, children can enjoy a variety of dedicated, family-centric activities. Live musical acts and traditional dance troupes will perform throughout the day, providing an immersive, rhythmic soundtrack that celebrates the movement and history of the Hispanic diaspora.
Reflecting on the American Dream
Beyond the food and entertainment, the festival provides a meaningful space for reflection. Timed to coincide with National Hispanic Heritage Month, the event honors the deep historic and contemporary contributions that Hispanic people have made to the United States. It highlights the shared journeys, resilience, and enduring pursuit of the American Dream within the community.
To support families in that pursuit, the festival grounds will also feature a community resources zone, offering valuable information and local services ranging from health wellness to educational opportunities.
“For 30 years, HOY en Delaware has been dedicated to informing, empowering, and celebrating our community,” said Jose Somalo, founder of HOY en Delaware. “The 9th Hispanic Heritage Festival is the ultimate expression of that mission. It brings together people of all backgrounds to share in our joy, our art, and our history. We invite everyone out to Bellevue State Park to celebrate with us, rain or shine.”
Event Details at a Glance:
- What: 9th Annual Hispanic Heritage Festival & HOY en Delaware 30th Anniversary Celebration
- When: Sunday, September 20, 2026 (Rain or Shine)
- Where: Bellevue State Park, Wilmington, Delaware
- Admission: Free (Free parking available on-site)
- Features: Live music, traditional dance, street-style Latin food, children’s activities, regional women artisans, and community resource booths.
For more information about the festival, vendor opportunities, or media credentials, please visit www.hoyendelaware.com or contact the festival team at news@hoyendelaware.com or (302) 854 0240.
About HOY en Delaware
Founded in 1996 by Jose Somalo, HOY en Delaware is the largest and longest running Hispanic newspaper serving Delaware and beyond since 1996. Celebrating 30 years of journalistic excellence, the publication connects communities, highlights cultural achievements, and provides vital news and resources to the Hispanic population.
