By Antonio Hernandez for Latin Latin Life Denver Media.
Photos by Joe Contreras, Latin Life Denver Media (see photo gallery below)

“Seeing everybody come together, that’s my favorite part about the Puerto Rican festival”, said 23 year old Alexandria Garcia. Her and her family came prepared with beach blankets and chairs. “We’re here every year”, said Garcia who came early to stake out the best spot to see the music and people watch. “The best part about being Puerto Rican is the food”, said Alexandria.

The event was packed with food carts, musicians, dancers, and festival goers alike. The June 11th event marked the 12 annual Taste of Puerto Rico festival. Vendors sold everything from Panamanian cuisine to Italian ice. Attendants made the rounds carrying cocktails fashioned out of pineapple halves.

Matthew Quick from “The Icicle Tricycle” said he hoped to serve at least 1200 on Sunday. Just shy of 100 sales in the first half hour he was said there was no reason why he shouldn’t hit his target.

12 year old Marquel Garcia commanded the stage at the civic center amphitheater Sunday afternoon. She sang “I Will Always Love You” to thousands of festival attendants. When asked about her favorite artists she said she draws inspiration from Whitney Houston. Photo by Antonio Hernandez

People gathered in the walkways and West lawn for a drum circle and dance. Trumpets sounded off and people cheered for the dancers. Couples danced The Salsa and Meringue in the amphitheater. Robel, a 28 year old Denver resident said, “I come for the beautiful women of course!”. He flashed a wide grin and raised a pineapple cocktail for a toast.

Among those performing for the approximately 50,000 in attendance were Conjunto Colores, Barrio E and many others.

Photos by Joe Contreras, Latin Life Denver Media