Savannah leaders, vendors celebrate Hispanic Heritage Festival with food, family and community

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 to October 15, and Eastern Wharf was filled with music, culture, and family.

Alfonso Ribot, founder and CEO of the Metropolitan Savannah Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, said, “The reason why they did it is so that the entire community, everybody, can celebrate with us.”

Camilo Carrasquilla said the celebration showcases Hispanic food vendors (including himself), dancing, and singers.

“It feels great,” Carrasquilla said. “It feels like being home, surrounded with all the Hispanic people. The fact of having everybody together is the most important thing.”

“We’re celebrating Hispanic Heritage with those things that actually make us what we are,” Ribot said. “Food, family, and fun. And those are some of the things we really. It’s part of our culture.”

Carrasquilla said family plays a central role in the Hispanic community.

“The Hispanic community is very into family,” Carrasquilla said. “You know, family is a big thing. So it’s just putting everybody together so we can start close and help each other out to bring that community message out there.”

Carrasquilla said the community has faced difficulties.

“It’s been rough times for us,” Carrasquilla said. “We stick together, and I think it’s going to be better for everybody.”

Ribot said the celebration recognizes Hispanic contributions.

“It’s important that we celebrate because as Hispanics, we have to pat ourselves on the back because so many things that we have brought to this country, to the state, to this county, and to this city,” Ribot said. “And we believe that it has to be celebrated.”