El Grito Fest

La Maquina Musical and La Musikera will host the first annual El Grito Fest on Tuesday, Sept. 16, a family-friendly celebration of Latino Heritage Month and the Independence Days of Mexico and other Latin American countries. The free event takes place in downtown Santa Rosa and invites people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds to come together in music, food, and community pride.

The evening’s entertainment will include Los Cadetes de Rigoberto Cantu, performing legendary norteño music; Macizo del Arpa, bringing harp-driven regional fusion; Los del 7, delivering high-energy regional hits; La Nueva Historia de Tierra Caliente, keeping the dance floor moving with Tierra Caliente music; Banda Súper Clave, adding upbeat banda rhythms; and Guarecitas y Viejitos de la Rivera del Lago de Patzcuaro, presenting traditional folkloric dance from Michoacán.

A highlight of the evening will be the traditional Grito de Independencia, led by Santa Rosa Vice Mayor Eddie Alvarez. The call, first made in 1810 by Father Miguel Hidalgo to spark the Mexican War of Independence, has become a symbol of freedom and cultural pride across the world.

The festival will also feature authentic Latin American food trucks, cultural booths, family activities, and local vendors with handmade crafts and art.

“El Grito Fest is about more than music,” organizers said. “It’s about honoring history, building community and celebrating the vibrant diversity of Sonoma County.”