Vamos Pa’ Puerto Rico
Experience the Culture • Celebrate Community • Create Impact
Date: Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 7:00 PM–11:00 PM
Location: August Wilson African American Cultural Center 980 Liberty Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Join us for an unforgettable evening featuring authentic Puerto Rican cuisine, live music, traditional dance performances, visual arts, handcrafted cocktails, and immersive cultural experiences that showcase the island’s rich heritage.
More than a celebration, this event makes a meaningful impact. Every ticket supports the Latino Community Center, empowering Latino families and strengthening our community across Pittsburgh.
Presented by
What to Expect
Entertainment
Especial Performances
James O’Malley Gorbea & Asier O’Malley Gorbea
James O’Malley Gorbea is a Puerto Rican-born guitarist, vocalist, cuatrista, and composer. Classically trained since age four, he has performed throughout the Pittsburgh region in settings ranging from protests and weddings to musical productions. A graduate of Carnegie Mellon University with a BFA in Guitar Performance and Music Composition and a minor in Conducting, he is pursuing a graduate degree in Music Education focused on guitar and composition. James has written and arranged works for orchestra, solo guitar, voice, and chamber ensembles. His composition, Bomba Blues, was premiered by the Conservatory of Music of Puerto Rico’s Clarinet Choir under the direction of Professor Kathleen Jones. Through performance, composition, and teaching, James explores connections between musical traditions while encouraging creativity and expression.
Nelly Santiago
Nely Santiago is a Puerto Rican dancer, salsa instructor, and choreographer based in Pittsburgh. Passionate about sharing Latino culture through dance, she teaches beginner salsa in a fun and welcoming environment for all ages and experience levels. She also creates custom quinceañera choreographies, helping families celebrate unforgettable moments. Through her classes and performances, Nely inspires confidence, connection, and joy while keeping Puerto Rican traditions alive.
Experience the vibrant spirit of Puerto Rico through dance! Join us for an energetic salsa class filled with music, movement, and Boricua culture. Whether you’re taking your very first steps or already love to dance, this fun and welcoming experience is open to everyone. Come connect, learn, and celebrate Puerto Rican culture on the dance floor.
Authentic Puerto Rican Food
Chef Eliezer Rodríguez (Koki Latin Cuisine)
Eliezer Rodriguez is a Personal Chef from Puerto Rico with 20 years of experience in the kitchen. His commitment is to help families and friends enjoy a distinctive and extraordinary restaurant-quality experience in the comfort and intimacy of their own homes.
His mission is to create a parade of flavors, colors, and textures that delight every diner’s palate, with an emphasis on high-quality ingredients, proper cooking techniques, and exceptional service.
In addition to providing memorable dining experiences, he develops balanced and healthy weekly meal plans tailored to his clients’ needs.
Through every dish, Eliezer shares the bold and delicious flavors of Latin cuisine, elevating the standard and perception of what Latin food can be while consistently delivering fresh, high-quality food and services of the highest standards.
Featured Menu
Experience the rich flavors and culinary traditions of Puerto Rico through a carefully curated menu featuring authentic island favorites. From savory appetizers and traditional main courses to classic desserts, each dish celebrates the vibrant culture and heritage of Puerto Rican cuisine.Experience the rich flavors and culinary traditions of Puerto Rico through a carefully curated menu featuring authentic island favorites. From savory appetizers and traditional main courses to classic desserts, each dish celebrates the vibrant culture and heritage of Puerto Rican cuisine.
Main Courses
- Roasted Pork (Pernil) with Onion Mojo
- Grilled chicken skewers
- Vegan Chickpea Stew
- Arroz con Gandules
- Mofongo
- Puerto Rican-Style Pasta Salad
- Vegan Yuca al Mojo
Appetizers
- Deconstructed Mini Alcapurrias (Ground Beef Picadillo)
- Lentil Empanadas (Vegan)
- Beef & Cheese Empanadas
- Puerto Rican-Style Shrimp Salad with Tortilla Chips
Desserts
- Vanilla Flan
- Tembleque (Vegan)
Cultural Exhibits
Artisan Market
Discover a collection of handcrafted souvenirs and accessories inspired by Puerto Rico and its cultural heritage. Lucinette will be showcasing and selling unique handmade creations, including keychains, necklaces, earrings, and other one-of-a-kind pieces that celebrate the island’s vibrant spirit.
Lucinette Alvarado Rivera is a multidisciplinary artist and artisan whose passion for creativity began in childhood through drawing and painting. She is the founder of Lucinette Alvarado Designs, where she creates handmade jewelry and artistic pieces inspired by her love of craftsmanship. Through her YouTube channel, she shares tutorials and insights into her creative process. Alongside her artistic work, Lucinette has built a distinguished career of nearly 20 years as an Industrial Hygienist, successfully combining her passions for science, art, and community engagement.
Photography Exhibit
Explore a collection of striking photographs by José M. Cancel Narváez. Attendees will have the opportunity to view a variety of photographic works and purchase select prints, each capturing unique moments, perspectives, and stories through the lens of an experienced artist.
José M. Cancel Narváez is a professional photographer originally from Ponce, Puerto Rico, whose work is shaped by a passion for visual storytelling and artistic expression. Now based in the Pittsburgh area, he brings more than 25 years of experience capturing beauty, emotion, and meaningful moments through photography. Through his business, JC Studios, he combines traditional photographic techniques with modern digital innovation to create compelling images that inspire reflection and connection.
