15th Annual Salsa on the Square Celebrates Latinx Heritage in Gettysburg
By Sophie Lange, Contributing Writer
Students visiting a tent at Salsa on the Square (Photo Will Oechler/The Gettysburgian)
Cloudy skies and chilly temperatures could not dampen the excitement radiating from Carlisle Street on the evening of Sept. 30. The tents that lined the sidewalks were decorated in bright streamers, warm lights, and delicate butterflies, leaving space in the street for people to dance to energetic music.
This event is highly anticipated every year, but this year’s Salsa on the Square was particularly exciting. After being unable to attend a physical event for two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, participants seemed overjoyed to be back in person to celebrate the lasting bond between Gettysburg, Pennsylvania and León, Nicaragua, in addition to the importance of Latinx culture within the Gettysburg community.
According to the event coordinator Toni Esquivias ’25, “Salsa on the Square is a place where the whole community can come and celebrate Latinx heritage.”
Those in attendance were able to enjoy music by DJ Solalinde and PA Mambo Orquesta, as well as the Dance of La Gigantona, a Nicaraguan folk dance, and a performance by Danza Tenochtli, a traditional Mexican folk dance troupe presented by the Adams County Arts Council.
Various vendors such as Casa de la Cultura and the Taco Trap House sold quesadillas, tacos, elotes, and a variety of desserts. There was also a sawdust painting that was constructed by Nicaraguan artists.
Part of this event’s beauty is found in the way it creates an opportunity for students to interact with the local community of Gettysburg, something that is greatly emphasized on campus. Salsa on the Square saw a lot of student involvement both in attendance and in volunteer efforts.
Attendee Victoria Staub ’23 commented that the event was a great way to “be involved in public service and the community.” Many other student volunteers shared this sentiment.
Salsa on the Square is a beloved event celebrating the 36-year partnership between two cities, and both residents of Gettysburg and students look forward to its return each year.
