GREENACRES - The western communities will get a taste of some Hispanic culture this weekend with the Palms West Chamber of Commerce's annual Salsa Fest from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. at the Greenacres Community Park, 2095 Jog Road. Admission is $10, children younger than 10 are admitted free and parking is free.

This year's event is featuring some big names in the Hispanic community: Colombian based Sonora Carruseles, famous for their Afro-Caribbean rhymes, Tito Rojas a.k.a. "El Gallo" a salsa singer and bandleader, and Grammy nominated artist Eddie Santiago, a salsa singer from Puerto Rico.

"Just having those three acts solidifies the success of last year," said Jaene Miranda, CEO of Palms West. "It was kind of a coup to have them together all on one stage."
There will also be some big names children might recognize as well like Dora the Explorer and SpongeBob Squarepants. Besides those acts there will also be Chihuahua races, bounce houses, salsa cook-offs, domino competitions, battle of the band competition, business expo, and arts and crafts.

Last year Salsa Fest attracted about 5,000 people. This year they're expecting upwards of 10,000 Miranda said.

"If you like the Hispanic culture you will have a great time," she said. "There's going to be something happening in all corners of the park."

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the city of Greenacres' Department of Leisure Services to help expand its youth programs.