Manchester is bracing itself for a Spanish armada as the city prepares to be engulfed in Latin fever.
Festejar is coming to Manchester’s Albert Square from September 5-7, and it promises to be a nonstop celebration of Spanish culture.
The whole family are invited to eat Spanish food, try out Spanish lessons, and even have a go at salsa and flamenco dancing.
Festival Organiser Patrick Marmion told MM: “Everyone’s invited to Festejar. It’s a celebration of Spanish culture, for Spaniards and Mancunians alike.”
The festival highlights Manchester as an international city, with its diverse population of multiple nationalities.
Patrick added: “Manchester is absolutely perfect for celebrating international events such as the Spanish Festival.
“It has a great historical connection with the Spanish community; including the younger Spaniard’s who travelled over to the UK after the recent Spanish Financial Crisis.”
Manchester’s official Spanish Government centre, Instituto Cervantes, will have a stall every day at the festival, as well as hosting dance and language events.
Instituto Cervantes told MM a teacher will be on hand to grade any willing festival-goers Spanish skills.
The teacher will tell them their level if they plan to sign up to Spanish classes at the centre in the future.
“Sunday from 12-3pm is especially for kids, full of interactive demonstrations for all the family” explained Patrick, including a fun Spanish language taster session from 12-12.30pm,” Instituto said.
Sunday also sees a salsa class lead by recognised Juan Munoz and Susan Milner, who have been teaching together for eleven years.
Instituto Cervantes names Juan a ‘charismatic charmer’, who studied at the University of Havana and competed as part of the world salsa championships in Cuba.
Those who prefer dining to dancing will also not be disappointed.
Patrick told MM: “A delicious selection of Spanish food will also be at the festival, from chorizo burgers, paella and tapas, to Churros voted the best in the country.
“The festival will also have a bar, serving sangria and Spanish beers, as well as wine demonstrations happening on the main stage.”
The party will continue into the night with an exciting UK debut from Spanish singer Izä, flying in from Barcelona especially for the festival.
Patrick adds: “She has an incredible voice, really representing modern Spain.
“Spanish DJ Alonso D will be following Izä, closing the night with a unique mix of Tribal House, Latin Dance and Deep House.”
For more information on the Festejar Spanish Festival Manchester, as well as videos of Izä, click here.
