Three Seminole County Chamber of Commerce members — the Florida Debate Initiative, Rock & Brews Oviedo, and Covenant Journey Academy, have joined forces to organize the inaugural ¡Viva Oviedo! Festival, a vibrant, family-friendly celebration of Hispanic heritage, food, and culture taking place Sunday, October 19, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Oviedo On The Park and it's Amphitheater & Cultural Center
Uniting Members Around a Shared Mission
What began as a vision to highlight Oviedo’s connection to its sister city in northern Spain has grown into a countywide effort to honor the history, culture, and lasting contributions of Hispanic Americans throughout Seminole County. The Florida Debate Initiative, Rock & Brews Oviedo, and Covenant Journey Academy, each driven by a shared commitment to community engagement, education, and cultural unity, saw an opportunity to work collaboratively on an event that brings residents and businesses together in a meaningful way.
-
The Florida Debate Initiative, led by President Abraham López, is dedicated to expanding civic literacy and student leadership across Florida’s 67 counties. For the organization, this event represents an extension of its mission to amplify community voices and promote dialogue across cultures.
-
Rock & Brews Oviedo, managed by Tavo Mendez, has long been a local gathering place where music, food, and family intersect. Its participation underscores the business’s investment in community-building through celebration.
-
Covenant Journey Academy, whose strategic partnerships is directed by Michelle Archival, brings an educational and faith-based perspective, supporting programs that nurture values of unity, respect, and cultural appreciation among students and families.
Together, these Chamber members are helping establish what is expected to become Seminole County’s premier celebration of Hispanic heritage, demonstrating how local businesses, educators, and nonprofits can partner for collective impact.
A Cultural Experience for All Ages
Set against the backdrop of Oviedo’s scenic amphitheater, ¡Viva Oviedo! will feature a full day of live music, dance, art, and authentic cuisine. Headlining performers include Latin jazz legend Tito Puente Jr., world-renowned pianist Adlan Cruz, and salsa favorites Edwin “El Calvito” Reyes and Daniel Díaz & Alexander López.
Festival goers will also enjoy performances from local cultural dance troupes, a Hispanic Heritage Knowledge Bowlbetween Oviedo and Hagerty High Schools, and a free Kids Zone filled with family activities.
The event aims to bring together residents of all backgrounds to celebrate Hispanic influence in art, music, food, and history — from traditional Spanish gaitas to modern Latin rhythms.
Celebrating Culture. Honoring Heritage. Uniting Community.
The festival’s theme, “Somos Uno...We Are One.” — reflects the founding vision of its steering committee, which includes Hispanic leaders from Seminole County’s business, academic, nonprofit, civic, and faith-based sectors. In the words of López, “¡Viva Oviedo! is more than an event, it’s a movement to celebrate who we are as a community. It’s about honoring our past, embracing our present, and inspiring future generations.”
Event Information
Date: Sunday, October 19, 2025
Time: 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Oviedo Center Lake Park & Amphitheater
Admission: Free and open to the public
More Information: www.
Media Contact:
¡Viva Oviedo! Festival Committee
(201) 892-6371
VivaOviedoFestival@gmail.com
www.VivaOviedoFestival.org
Florida Debate Initiative
-
Abraham Lopez President
- October 13, 2025
- (201) 892-6371
- Send Email
