Residents can check out a variety of free cultural events at all Long Beach Public Library (LBPL) locations during the 6th Annual Vida Latina.
This year’s series will begin Sept. 17 and conclude Oct. 12 with nearly four weeks of programs and artistic events and informative activities that focus on Latin American heritage and history. Vida Latina is made possible by the Friends of the Long Beach Public Library and the Long Beach Public Library Foundation.
“Vida Latina is a testament to the vibrant and diverse cultural fabric of our community,” said Mayor Rex Richardson in a public statement. “This celebration not only honors the rich heritage of Latin American cultures, but also brings our community together through shared experiences and learning.”
The Vida Latina festivities include activities for all ages, with events from previous years, such as loteria, Cuentos y Cantos storytime and the closing Vida Latina Celebration, making their returns.
New events for the 6th Annual Vida Latina include:
Hilos de Sueños y Recuerdos: Sew It Goes
Residents of all skill levels ages 12 and up can contribute to a community quilt and work on sewing projects in a supportive environment. There will be five sessions, all taking place from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on the following dates:
- Saturday, Sept. 14 & Saturday, Oct. 12 at Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library (5870 Atlantic Ave.)
- Saturday, Sept. 21 at Harte Neighborhood Library (1595 W. Willow St.)
- Saturday Sept. 28 & Thursday, Oct. 10 at Billie Jean King Main Library (200 W. Broadway)
Financial Literacy with Corissa Hernandez
Latina entrepreneur and financial advisor Corissa Hernandez is hosting a series of financial literacy workshops, each with a distinct theme, aimed at adults ages 18 and up.
Your Relationship with Money
- Thursday, Sept. 19 at Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Building Generational Wealth
- Saturday, Sept. 21 at Burnett Neighborhood Library (560 E. Hill St.) from noon to 1:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, Sept. 25 at Mark Twain Neighborhood Library (1401 E. Anaheim St.) from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Mujeres, Mocktails & Money
- Saturday, Oct. 5 from at Billie Jean King Main Neighborhood Library from noon to 2 p.m.
Power of Poetry – Featured Author Talk
Author Aida Salazar will discuss her new book “Ultraviolet” in this community poetry event in partnership with the Long Beach Youth Poet Ambassadors.
Attendees will write and discuss within a mini poetry workshop and community slam at Billie Jean King Main Library on Oct. 1 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The event is for people ages 10 and up.
The final hurrah of the 6th Annual Vida Latina will be the annual Vida Latina Celebration, held at the Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library on Oct. 12 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Community members are invited to create art, poetry, work together on a community quilt and learn cumbia, bachata and merengue dance steps. The event will also include live music, poetry and dance performances as well as free food.
“Vida Latina is more than just a series of events; it is a celebration of the spirit and contributions of the Latin American community in Long Beach. Through storytelling, music, art, and education, we aim to create meaningful experiences highlighting Latin American culture’s richness,” said Cathy De Leon, Director of Library Services, in a public statement. “We invite everyone to join us in this vibrant celebration and deepen their understanding and appreciation of our shared cultural heritage.”
For more information about the upcoming Vida Latina schedule, visit the LBPL’s events calendar. Residents can explore the city’s cultural history all year long on the Library’s “Reflections of Long Beach” webpage.
