By BOB SHRALUKA
WZBD.com
The 2025 festival season on the Madison St. Plaza in Decatur came to a close Saturday with what is destined to be an annual staple, the Festival de Hispanos.
Held for the first time last year, the festival attracted a much larger turnout of people than was expected. This year’s crowd was even larger, organizers said.
Food was plentiful, as was music and dancing – all of the Hispanic culture – during the six hours of festivities.
All manner of items were available for sale from numerous “booths” set up on Second St. downtown.
The Canales family of Decatur organizes and operates the event, with Carson Canales heading up the venture. The family is already looking ahead to next year’s festival.
When the event was first held last year, 300 or so people were expected. Instead, an estimated 1,500 showed up. This year’s numbers were greater.
“We were very pleased with (this year’s) turnout,” said Victor Canales, Carson’s father and one of the founders of the festival. “We felt it was about 20% more than last year.”
For Victor, CEO and founder of Canales Legacy Unlimited LLC who now resides in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin, the festival has a greater meaning than just food and fun.
“We want people to understand this is a celebration of some things that make us different, but we are proud American Latinos,” he said. “We have multiple American military veterans and current military personnel who serve.
“We appreciate all races, creeds and colors. It’s just a great way to learn some new languages, some new dance steps and eat some great food.”
Carson is a sergeant in the National Guard.
“Carson and his vision is growing and we’re proud to stand behind him as he makes things better for this festival,” Victor said. “Remember, he’s a sergeant in the National Guard. He doesn’t want to drive a wedge, just honor where he’s from.
“We were really happy to see so many people of all backgrounds having a great time together.”
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