LOS ANGELES — Salsa Fest, a daylong celebration of Latin music, dancing, food, and local vendors hosted by LMU Radio’s KXLU-FM, returns to Loyola Marymount University for its eighth year during Latinx Heritage Month. The free event is from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025.
Please consider supporting this annual event to ensure it thrives for years to come for the community: Donate to KXLU.
LMU Radio’s KXLU 88.9 FM’s popular “Alma del Barrio” show, created by then-LMU students Enrique “Kiki” Soto and the late Raul Villa in fall 1973, will host the event.
Salsa Fest VIII will include special recognitions honoring Joaquin del Toro, a longtime “Alma” DJ, Lázaro Galarraga, featured performer, and Susie Hansen, featured performer and headliner.
“Salsa Fest marks a time to celebrate culture, music, and community,” said Lydia Ammossow, who directs LMU Radio’s KXLU-FM operations. “Year after year, we look forward to the event as a day dedicated to Latin music, and a way to champion the community members who have supported KXLU.”
Guests will enjoy “Alma del Barrio” D.J. sets, and featured performances spotlighting different sound influences, including Rogê (Brazilian/samba); Lázaro Galarraga & Sitara Son, (Afro/Cuban); and Roosevelt “El Presidente de la Salsa”(salsa dura). The headliner, the Susie Hansen Latin Band (salsa and charanga) performs from 4:30 p.m. to 5:45 p.m.
Guests are encouraged to RSVP for event updates. Family friendly and open to the community, Salsa Fest VIII runs from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. in LMU’s Lawton Plaza, 1 LMU Drive, Los Angeles, 90045.
Listen to “Alma del Barrio” at 88.9 FM in Los Angeles, and online at www.kxlu.com, or by downloading the free LMU Radio KXLU smartphone app.
Salsa Fest VIII Schedule of Performances
11 a.m. “Alma del Barrio” DJ set
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.: Band No. 1, Rogê (Brazilian/samba)
12:30 to 1 p.m. “Alma del Barrio” DJ set
1 to 2:15 p.m. Band No. 2, Lázaro Galarraga & Sitara Son (Afro/Cuban)
2:15 to 2:45 p.m. “Alma del Barrio” DJ set
2:45 to 4 p.m. Band No. 3, Roosevelt “El Presidente de la Salsa” (salsa dura)
4 to 4:30 p.m. “Alma del Barrio” DJ set
4:30 to 5:45 p.m. Band No. 4, Susie Hansen Latin Band (salsa and charanga)