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Event Celebrates Hispanic Culture

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By JOSE PATINO GIRONA

jpatino@tampatrib.com

Published: November 5, 2008

DREW PARK - In 2004, Maritza Astorquiza and her husband, Alex Cora, started Conga Caliente, which translates as Hot Conga in English, as a celebration of Hispanic music, arts and culture.

The program has grown over the years, and the one-day event now draws more than 30,000 people to Al Lopez Park. Astorquiza and Cora own Coda Sound, a production company that handles audio, stage and lighting for the festival, which is set for Sunday.

Along with performances and art, there are health screenings and education, food vendors and children's activities.

Astorquiza said she is touched by the families who come to the event.

Q. Why did you begin Conga Caliente?

A. It was started as a one-time event. We were hoping for 1,500 people. We got over 20,000.

Q. What is the event?

A. Since the beginning, it has been an inclusive event for families to come and enjoy the Hispanic arts and cultures. It is not a Hispanic event. It is a family festival that celebrates Hispanic culture in the United States.

Q. What is the crowd like?

A. I would say 75 percent Hispanic and 25 percent non-Hispanic. All our marketing is bilingual.

Q. Are you surprised by the size of the event?

A. I never expected it to be this big. I am expecting 35,000 (on Sunday).

Q. What can first-time attendees expect?

A. There is a main stage. We have a health village. We have an arts village, and we have a children's village. We have a domino tournament. We have a beer garden. There is cigar rolling and a cigar lounge.

Q. How many sponsors did you have in the first year?

A. We didn't even have a handful.

Q. How many sponsors now?

A. More than 10.

Q. Where does the festival stand today?

A. We have reached another level. Conga Caliente is now nationally and internationally recognized.

Q. Why do this?

A. We started this festival as a passion. It turned out to have a life of its own. The community now expects it.

Q. How long will you continue?

A. I think the festival is driving us on this venture, not the other way around.

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Conga Caliente, a celebration of Hispanic arts, music and culture; sponsors include The Tampa Tribune and sister publication Centro Mi Diario

WHEN: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday

WHERE: Al Lopez Park, 4810 N. Himes Ave.

COST: Free admission

INFORMATION: www.conga caliente.com or (813) 353-8151

Reporter Jose Patino Girona can be reached at (813) 259-7659.

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