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Feria del Barrio (Feria), the annual outdoor festival that brings thousands to Philadelphia’s famed Centro de Oro (Golden Center), will divert from its tradition of awarding a Latino arts, education or business leader so that it may recognize the Philadelphia Police Department and Philadelphia Fire Department. This year’s event falls on the 15th Anniversary of the September 11th attacks, and will take place from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., on 5th Street between Lehigh Avenue and Cambria Street.

“Feria del Barrio is the only Latino community festival with a commercial corridor as its backdrop. As business owners, community organizations, and residents, we depend on the Philadelphia police and fire departments to be a part of this neighborhood’s vitality,” shared Dr. Carmen Febo, Executive Director of Taller Puertorriqueño, the festival’s lead organizing agency. “We wanted to recognize the first-responders in this community in honor of all that was sacrificed on 9/11,” she continued. Lieutenant Pete Rosario will accept on behalf of the Philadelphia Police Department, and Captain Peter Crespo will accept on behalf of the Philadelphia Fire Department.

In addition to the award ceremony, Feria has partnered with Telemundo62 to host a voter registration drive in advance of the upcoming presidential election. “Feria del Barrio has become a popular tradition for hundreds of families in the heart of Philadelphia’s Latino community,” said Ric Harris, President and General Manager of NBC10 and Telemundo62. “Telemundo62 is proud to be part of this beloved neighborhood festival that celebrates Latino culture throughout our region.”

The main performance this year will be acclaimed and award winning percussionist Pablo Batista, a recipient of the distinguished Pew Fellowship Award in Folk Art who toured and recorded with the late Grover Washington, Jr., from 1985 until Grover’s passing in 1999. Along with his group The Mambo Syndicate, they produce music that is a delicious blend of Afro-Caribbean music, Salsa and more. La Mega Radio contributes entertainment by Sylvio Mora and Swing D Guille who will join additional local talent to provide an afternoon of music, dance and fun.

With sponsorship support by Xfinity, Creative Philadelphia, PNC Bank, PECO, Health Partners and others, families are invited to enjoy children’s activities, including face painting, arts and crafts, as well as to learn more about community resources presented by area organizations and companies. Congreso de Latinos Unidos and Health Partners Plans will be providing a variety of health screenings.