Long Beach Public Library Celebrates Latin American Culture with Vida Latina Series

The Long Beach Public Library is bringing more than 30 days of music, art, storytelling, dance and hands-on fun to all 12 library locations as it celebrates the eighth annual Vida Latina series from Sept. 15 through Oct. 31.

This year’s celebration, themed Alumbra Tu Vida (Light Up Your Life), invites the community to discover something new that brings light and joy into their lives while celebrating the rich and diverse cultures of Latin American communities. With free programs for children, teens, adults and families, Vida Latina offers opportunities to experience culture through music, food, art, stories, traditions and community connection.

The celebration kicks off with Una Tardeada con (An Evening with) Boleros with Attitude on Thursday, Sept. 17, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Billie Jean King Main Library. The Los Angeles-based trio will perform a lively mix of traditional Latin folk music, romantic boleros and original hip-hop, combining music and storytelling for an all-ages celebration of culture and creativity.

Throughout the series, special guests and performers will offer even more ways for the community to explore Latin American traditions and discover new interests.

Highlights include:

Mike Alfaro and Sí Sabo Kids — Saturday, Oct. 3 at 11 a.m.

Children's author and creator of Millennial Loteria, Mike Alfaro, will visit Billie Jean King Main Library to share the latest books in his Sí Sabo Kids series, The Unbreakable Piñata and What Does Ñ Sound Like?

Selena Storytime with Josue Cuentacuentos — Various dates

Bilingual storyteller Josue Cuentacuentos will bring his energetic Selena Storytime to multiple library locations, giving young readers and families an opportunity to celebrate the iconic artist through storytelling.

Baile Con Nosotros (Dance with Us) — Various dates

Local dance instructors Christopher Sandoval and Jeanette Flores will lead Mexican Regional Dance workshops for children and families at multiple branches throughout the series. Designed for participants of all abilities, the workshops offer a fun and welcoming way to get moving and experience Latin dance.

La Gran Tardeada (The Big Evening): Latin Idols with Selenamos — Friday, Oct. 16, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library

The festive evening will feature a performance by Selena tribute band Selenamos, a children’s Bad Bunny puppet show, a Latin idols costume contest, karaoke, arts and crafts and more. Guests are encouraged to dress as a favorite Latin music icon, cultural figure or even a favorite Lotería card.

Noche de Cuentos en Comunidad (A Night of Stories in Community) — Friday, Oct. 30 at 5:30 p.m.

Acclaimed storyteller Olga Loya will bring her signature Day of the Dead performance and storytelling workshop to Harte Neighborhood Library, offering an evening of stories, culture and community.

The spirit of Día de los Muertos will also come to life throughout October at Harte Neighborhood Library. Every Friday from 3 to 5 p.m., the library’s community room will become a community altar where families and community members can create decorations for the altar or their own family altars. The library will also accept 5-by-7-inch photos of deceased loved ones to be included on the community altar throughout the month.

Now in its eighth year, Vida Latina continues the Long Beach Public Library’s tradition of creating welcoming spaces where residents can celebrate culture, share traditions and connect with one another. From creative activities and family programs to performances and cultural storytelling, this year’s series offers something for every generation.

Vida Latina is generously supported by the Long Beach Public Library Foundation, the Port of Long Beach and REFORMA, The National Association to Promote Library and Information Services to Latinos and the Spanish-Speaking.

For the full schedule of Vida Latina programs, visit the Long Beach Public Library’s events calendar or call 562-570-7500.