Estamos Aquí: A Celebration of Culture, Entrepreneurship, and Community Growth

Written By: Estamos Aquí Festival Committee

The Estamos Aquí Festival has quickly become a cultural and economic powerhouse in Green Bay. Held annually at and in partnership with the Weidner Center at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, this festival is more than a celebration—it’s a platform for Latino entrepreneurs, artists, and small businesses to gain exposure, generate revenue, and build connections.

Created and organized by a dedicated team of Latino volunteers, the festival brings the community together through music, food, art, and tradition. Taking place on the Saturday closest to Mexican Independence Day, the event carries deep cultural pride and significance, making it a high-energy experience for both participants and attendees. But beyond the celebration, Estamos Aquí is a catalyst for Latino economic empowerment.

Since its inception, the festival has prioritized Latino vendors, contractors, and service providers, ensuring that event dollars stay within the community. Over the past two years, it has supported over 100 Latino-owned businesses, giving them a space to showcase their products, connect with customers, and gain credibility. Many vendors have shared how this opportunity has helped them expand their reach and, in some cases, take the next step in their business journey.

This matters because Latinos are the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs in the U.S., starting businesses at a rate three times higher than the national average. Despite this, they often face barriers in accessing funding, networking, and mainstream opportunities. Events like Estamos Aquí play a crucial role in leveling the playing field, helping Latino businesses gain visibility and thrive in a market that too often overlooks them.

Beyond economic impact, Estamos Aquí also serves as a major tourism driver. Visitors travel from across Northeast Wisconsin, including Milwaukee and Madison, to attend the event. This influx of people benefits not just festival vendors, but also local hotels, restaurants, and other businesses, reinforcing the festival’s role in strengthening Green Bay’s economy.

Estamos Aquí proves that when communities invest in diversity, inclusion, and entrepreneurship, everyone benefits. It’s more than a festival—it’s a movement that continues to build momentum, ensuring that Latino culture and business success remain at the heart of Green Bay’s growth.