Latin America is coming to Sparks Street in Ottawa, promising the best in cultural cuisine, entertainment and the opportunity to dance with thousands of friends on the city’s biggest outdoor dancefloor. Hosted by The International, Latin Sparks is a night-long celebration held on the last Saturday of every month throughout the summer. That means the next celebration is July 26!
In it’s third year, the organizers aim to make this one even bigger, partnering with more restaurants and bars along Sparks Street, adding another dancefloor and DJ, a giant limbo at midnight and hoping to draw 4,000 people. One dancefloor will play salsa/Latin music and the other will play Top 40. Those who want to learn some Latin dance moves can get a little help from instructors of Ritmo Baile Dance School.
While the night promises fiery Latin beats, food and drink, the main goal is to showcase the beauty of the culture.
“We started with the whole idea that we wanted to encourage multiculturalism and find a positive, educational way to promote Latin culture,” explained Hala Al-Hafez, Marketing Director at The International. “Instead of having a conference and simply talking about Latin America, we wanted to make it fun and have a huge party! We began in Ottawa because our founders grew up here and were involved in the Latin American Association at Carleton University.”
Sparks Street was chosen as the venue because of its tourist appeal and downtown location. It also has a European feel and thanks to its name, perfectly resonates with the Latin community and personna.
As for the future, Al-Hafez said The International wants to take Latin Sparks to Montreal and Toronto.
Like many festivals, the event uses coloured bracelets to determine those who can drink alcohol.Latin Sparks starts at 9:30 p.m. and ends at 2 a.m. Tickets in advance are $10 and tickets at the door are $15. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.theinternational.ca
