Mark your calendars for a day of vibrant art, music, and community spirit! Essex Art Center is thrilled to announce its fourth annual block party, Fiesta en la Calle, on Saturday, July 13, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. This free event promises a colorful showcase of Greater Lawrence’s diverse artistic talents and cultural heritage.
A Day Filled with Creativity and Fun
As the sun rises over Lawrence on July 13, Island Street will come alive with the sounds of DJ Fillup Deflor, kicking off a day of family-friendly art activities. The air will soon be filled with the rhythms of Latin music, featuring performances by local artists throughout the day.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, July 13
Time: 11:00 am to 4:00 pm
Location: Essex Art Center, 56 Island Street, Lawrence, MA 01840
Performance Lineup
– 11:00 AM: DJ Fillup Deflor starts the party
– Izizwe Dance Studio (time TBA)
– 12:00 PM: Rosario Rivas (Tango)
– 1:00 PM: Fabiola Mendez (Cuatrista)
– 2:00 PM: Barbarita Y Su Orquesta (Salsa)
– Utopia Dance (Salsa Dance and Instruction, time TBA)
– 3:00 PM: Yelena (Latin / R&B Soul Artist)
This exciting lineup ensures something for everyone, from tango enthusiasts to salsa lovers and R&B fans. Don’t miss the chance to learn new moves with Utopia Dance’s salsa instruction!
Art for All
Fiesta en la Calle isn’t just about music and dance. Step inside Essex Art Center, and you’ll find an inclusive art exhibition featuring works from established professionals and emerging youth artists. Many of these talented individuals will showcase their creations for the first time. If a piece catches your eye, you’re lucky – select works will be available for purchase, with proceeds supporting both the artists and Essex Art Center’s community programs.
Community Connection
Local nonprofits and businesses will be on hand to share information about their services and offer a taste of Lawrence’s culinary delights. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the organizations that make our community thrive.
A Splash of Fun
New this year is a dunk tank featuring local celebrities. Don’t miss your chance to soak Michael Bobbitt, Mass Cultural Council Executive Director, or Senator Pavel Payano!
A Growing Tradition
“Fiesta en la calle started in 2021 as an opportunity to gather our community and celebrate the arts and culture of the region,” says Monica Manoski, Executive Director of Essex Art Center. “Each year, we work to make the event more special and fun.”
Join us on July 13 and be part of this growing Lawrence tradition. Fiesta en la Calle is more than just a block party – it’s a testament to our community’s creative spirit and cultural richness.
For more information about Essex Art Center and our programs, visit their website
*Essex Art Center gratefully acknowledges the support of our event sponsors: City of Lawrence, Lawrence Cultural Council, Enterprise Bank, Rosman Family Fund, LCW Certified Public Accountants, Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union, Reading Cooperative Bank, Northern Essex Community College, Lawrence Community Works, Montserrat College of Art, Essex County Community Foundation, The Community Group, Karen Van Welden-Herman and Jack Herman, and Pamela Yameen.*
Cover image of Fabiola Mendez performing at the 2023 Bread and Roses Festival by John Andrews/Creative Collective
