STRATFORD, CT– The Town of Stratford’s Latin Music Festival earns an honorable mention in the National League of Cities (NLC) 2025 City Cultural Diversity Awards. Presented annually, these awards honor communities that demonstrate leadership in developing effective and creative programs that benefit and support residents of all backgrounds.
Submissions for the awards were categorized by city population and assessed based on creativity, community impact and program scope. Stratford’s Latin Music Festival was recognized in the 50,001-200,000-population category for its program: Latin Music Festival, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this September.
Created in 2005 by Stratford Hispanic Heritage Committee co-chairs Gladys Ramos and Olga Pena, the Latin Music Festival has grown to showcase over 45 vendors and dozens of Latin-inspired performances. Entertainers and attendees travel from New York City and the Greater Bridgeport area to partake in the festival, which is free to the public. In 2024, the Latin Music Festival welcomed over 3,500 attendees to Stratford’s Paradise Green neighborhood. The NLC recognizes the Latin Music Festival as a shining example of diversity and total community collaboration and partnership.
“The 20th anniversary of the Latin Music Festival is a perfect milestone to celebrate both the festival's longevity and its cultural impact,” said Stratford Mayor Laura R. Hoydick. “It's clear that the Latin Music Festival is a testament to the rich diversity and vibrant culture in Stratford, and we are honored to be recognized for this award.”
“Receiving this recognition for the Latin Music Festival is not just an honor, but a celebration of our rich cultural heritage,” said Gladys Ramos. “The Hispanic Heritage Committee is thankful for the Town of Stratford’s support for twenty years. This support has allowed us to share the beauty of Latin traditions with our community as well as fund our annual scholarship program, which supports students of Latin/ Hispanic heritage. “
“It is truly an honor to celebrate and recognize the Town of Stratford for their efforts in strengthening community engagement and fostering a sense of belonging among residents,” said National League of Cities President Mayor Steve Patterson of Athens, OH. “This program provides a new and effective way to better serve residents and make them feel included and supported. This initiative is a major step toward improving engagement and connection within the community.”
The winners were recognized this March at NLC’s 2025 Congressional City Conference in Washington, D.C. For more information about the NLC City Cultural Diversity Award winners, visit www.nlc.org.
The 2025 Latin Music Festival will be held on September 14th (rain date September 21st) as a kick-off to National Hispanic Heritage Month. Additional celebrations include a flag raising on September 15th to be held in front of Town Hall, 2725 Main Street, Stratford, CT. The Latin Music Festival is sponsored by the Stratford Economic and Community Development Commission.
About the National League of Cities
The National League of Cities (NLC) is the voice of America’s cities, towns and villages, representing more than 200 million people. NLC works to strengthen local leadership, influence federal policy and drive innovative solutions.