La Luz preparing for the return of Gran Festival

The summer events in Hampton will continue next week as La Luz Centro hosts its fifth Gran Festival, bringing the cultural celebration back to the community after having to cancel last year's event due to the pandemic.

"We're excited to have that milestone and to be able to have the community event again," said Associate Director Aimee Lenth.

With a schedule full of bands and singers, Band Shell Park will have no shortage of live music and entertainment. La Luz is even working on a booking a new cultural performance and educational presentation as a centerpiece for the event.

"It's a little bit different from previous years," said Executive Director Claudia Rivera.

In addition to the performances, the event will also have raffle drawings, a dunk tank, crafts, a petting zoo and free inflatables for the kids.

"We wanted to provide a fun day for families after a hard year," said Rivera.

Gran Festival will be held from Noon to 9:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 26 at Band Shell Park. Most everything is ready to go, but La Luz is always looking for more volunteers to help with the event.

"It'll be a good day," said Lenth. "It will be really nice to see people we haven't seen in a long time."