On June 28, Philadelphia’s iconic LOVE Park witnessed a historic celebration: for the first time in its 44-year history, Concilio’s Hispanic Fiesta was held in this emblematic urban space.
Traditionally hosted at Penn’s Landing, the festival had to find a new venue due to renovations at the site, and thanks to the support of Wawa Welcome America 2025, it found a temporary new home in Love Park. Although an attendance of 10,000 people was expected, from the early hours it was clear that number would be far exceeded.
As every year, the festival capped off the month of June with a flourish, bringing together Latino communities from across the region to celebrate their cultural heritage with music, dance, food, and art. It was a day filled with identity, joy, and a deep sense of belonging.
The event was enthusiastically hosted by María del Pilar, radio personality from Mega 105.7, who guided the audience through the day’s various performances. Before the main act, the stage came alive with the talent of groups such as Los Pueblitos, Bonilla Baile Folklórico, Estilo Dance Studio, and others who got the crowd dancing.
(Photo: Erick Barragán)
In his welcome remarks, Adonis Banegas, Executive Director of El Concilio, emphasized that this festival is not just a celebration, but a tangible way to support the organization’s mission: to provide social, educational, cultural, and youth intervention services to underserved families, while also serving as a voice for the Latino community and a catalyst for preserving its traditions.
Michael DelBene, president of Wawa Welcome America, noted that events like this are the very reason the city’s festival exists.
He was the one who introduced Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker, who declared that Concilio had gone above and beyond anything done in previous editions, by taking over LOVE Park and managing to gather around 15,000 people.
Parker also took the opportunity to acknowledge the work and commitment of Councilmember Quetcy Lozada and Representative Danilo Burgos, who have been key allies in supporting the Latino community in the city.
Finally, the diva of reggaeton, better known as “La Caballota,” Ivy Queen, took the stage, reigniting the energy of a crowd that had patiently waited through a hot and humid afternoon. Despite the weather, the audience remained on their feet, excited and dancing since early in the day, just to witness the return of a legend.
Ivy did not disappoint, she performed her most iconic hits and connected with the audience with the strength and charisma that have cemented her as a genre icon. Her set lasted about an hour, during which Love Park vibrated with every verse, every chorus, and every empowering shout the artist shared with thousands of fans singing along.
With this performance, Ivy Queen didn’t just close out the night — she sealed a memorable day for Philadelphia’s Latino community.
Hispanic Fiesta 2025 was more than just a festival: it was a declaration of pride, resilience, and unity from a community that continues to grow and claim its place in the heart of Philadelphia.
Amid traditional flavors, familiar sounds, and a shared spirit, LOVE Park became — for one day — a piece of every Latin American country, celebrating not just one culture, but many.