New England's longest-running Latinx cultural celebration returns to the South End on July 15 with live music from Latinx artists including Grammy Award winner José Alberto "El Canario"

Festival Betances, hosted by Inquilinos Boricuas en Acción (IBA), has been a summer staple in the South End since 1973 and serves as a powerful tribute to Puerto Rican heritage. Celebrating its 50th anniversary with the theme Salsa en el 23, this year's free event will feature a lively parade, delicious food, and of course, musical performances by acclaimed Latinx artists.

Festival Betances has grown from a spirited celebration of Puerto Rican traditions, music, and dance, to a melting pot where a variety of Latinx heritages converge. Rooted in inclusivity, the event features children's activities to provide entertainment for all while fostering unity and a sense of belonging.

The Festival is named after Ramón Emeterio Betances, a Puerto Rican patriot whose medical contributions benefited Latin America, the Caribbean, and the United States. He also became a leader in awakening national consciousness in Puerto Rico and is considered one of the foremost intellectuals of the 19th century.

Saturday, July 15, Parade begins at noon, music from 1-8PM [Rain or shine]

Musical performances:

1PM: Juan Nieves, Puerto Rican producer and composer

2:15PM: Barbara Zamora y Su Orquesta, Cuban salsa singer

3:30 PM: SBM, Boston-based salsa singer and songwriter

4:45 PM: David Pabón, salsa romántica performer

6:30 PM: José Alberto "El Canario," Latin Grammy winner and salsa superstar

Plaza Betances — 100 W Dedham Street, South End, Boston