Wake Up Tri-Counties Kewanee Hispanic Heritage Members Talk Celebration on September 27, 2025

Come out and support the Kewanee Hispanic Heritage Celebration on Saturday, September 27th. The festivities will run from 4 to 11 PM at the Kewanee American Legion, located at 116 East 3rd Street. Hosted by the Kewanee Commission on Human Relations, the celebration promises an evening of live music, delicious food, and local vendors, highlighting the rich cultural traditions of the Hispanic community. Organizers invite residents to enjoy the festivities and support the ongoing efforts to promote diversity, inclusion, and cultural appreciation throughout the Kewanee area.

Daniela Garcia-Lozano, Dulce Contreras, America Gobellan, Sayde Tapia, and Jessica Fornander joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to give you a rundown of the festivities and a hint about the first-ever award winner, a person who has had an impact on the community, the Orgullo Hispano Award. The Kewanee community is eagerly anticipating the announcement of this year’s Orgullo Hispano honoree, a distinction given to a local individual who has made significant contributions. Organizers will reveal the winner on Friday evening, and attendees have the chance to guess the honoree’s identity for a prize at Saturday’s celebration. The clues point to a notable medical professional: a La Salle Medical School graduate who completed residency in Davenport, Iowa, advocated for LPNs to work in clinics, and participated in medical missions across Central America and Africa. Community members are abuzz, speculating who will receive this honor.

Attendees can enjoy a vibrant lineup: recognition awards kick off festivities, followed by traditional dance and live musical performances. The winners of the student art contest will be announced during the opening ceremony at 5 PM. DJ Tony Beats and Tamborazo De Oro will take the stage, ensuring energy remains high throughout the celebration. Food vendors promise a range of delicious options, and a photo booth will capture lasting memories. The event spotlights cultural pride while uniting the community through music, dance, and flavors from across the Hispanic world. Doors open to all interested in joining the celebration.