A Total Success — Mobile Latin Fest 2025 Unites and Inspires the Gulf Coast
By Silvia Lessa Skultety, President, HABAGC
What began just five years ago with five food vendors, one band, and a small stage during Mobile’s Art Walk has now blossomed into one of the largest and most vibrant cultural festivals on the Gulf Coast.
The Mobile Latin Fest 2025, held at Mardi Gras Park, welcomed more than 7,000 attendees, filling downtown Mobile with the rhythms, flavors, and colors of Latin America.
More than just a festival, Mobile Latin Fest has become a movement — one that elevates, unites, and celebrates the community, honoring diversity and strengthening the cultural bonds that make Mobile such a dynamic and inclusive city.
This year’s celebration featured an impressive lineup of 20 food vendors representing Mexico, El Salvador, Colombia, Venezuela, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Chile, Argentina, and Guatemala, along with a special Dominican/Cajun fusion. Each vendor brought authentic flavors that reflected the Gulf Coast’s unique cultural blend.
From 2:00 to 9:00 p.m., Mardi Gras Park came alive with nonstop entertainment that showcased the talent, rhythm, and passion of the Latino community. DJ Riqui and DJ Sista kept the energy high throughout the day, setting the tone for an afternoon full of excitement.
The crowd cheered as Omar Brown delivered a powerful live performance, followed by Grupo Folclórico MITOTIANI “México,” whose traditional dances captivated audiences with color and movement. The sounds of trumpets soon filled the park as Mariachi Moderno Internacional brought authentic mariachi flair that had everyone singing along.
The festivities continued with stunning performances by the Zuraka Belly Dancers of Mobile, blending elegance and cultural fusion, and the Mobile Ballet, highlighting the artistic diversity within our community.
A major highlight was the Presentation of Miss Mobile Latin Fest 2025, celebrating culture, beauty, and pride. This year’s winner, Laura Milena Figueroa Gómez, represented Colombia and is a student at the University of South Alabama — embodying the spirit of unity and leadership that defines the festival.
The celebration continued with the Parade of Flags and a lively Bomba y Plena performance by Batey, filling the park with rhythm and cultural pride. As the evening arrived, Fermin & Merengue 4 energized the crowd with upbeat Latin sounds, while Zumba with Rose got everyone moving. The festival closed with a powerful and unforgettable performance by Latin Soul, whose electric set left the crowd cheering for more.
The festival also featured artisan vendors, cultural exhibits, and family-friendly activities — all celebrating the strength, creativity, and unity of the Latino community along the Gulf Coast.
The Hispanic American Business Association of the Gulf Coast (HABAGC), organizers of the event, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all sponsors, artists, volunteers, and community partners whose dedication made this celebration possible. Their combined efforts transformed Mardi Gras Park into a joyful showcase of culture, unity, and love.
As the Mobile Latin Fest continues to grow, its mission remains clear: to uplift, connect, and celebrate the many cultures that enrich the Gulf Coast region.
