BIG Salsa Festival

The BIG Salsa Festival, a vibrant celebration of salsa and Latin dance, was founded in 2012 in San Antonio, Texas. The festival was initiated by Lee Rios and Oscar Martinez, who envisioned a weekend filled with fun, music, and dance, showcasing the best salsa performers and offering professionally taught workshops. The inaugural event took place at the Grand Hyatt San Antonio, a venue that would become synonymous with the festival's lively atmosphere and dedication to the salsa community.

Over the years, the BIG Salsa Festival evolved significantly, transitioning from a local gathering to a prominent event on the international salsa calendar. The festival's format expanded to include multiple days of performances, workshops, and social dancing, attracting participants from various regions. By 2016, the festival had established itself as a must-attend event, featuring renowned artists such as Joan Soriano, Ray De La Paz, and Oscar D'Leon, and drawing salsa enthusiasts from across the globe.

Notable editions of the festival include the 2016 and 2017 events, which marked the festival's growing reputation. The 2016 edition was particularly memorable, featuring a lineup of top musicians and dancers, while the 2017 festival continued to showcase international talent and offered workshops for all skill levels. In 2022, the festival celebrated its 10th anniversary in New York, highlighting its journey and the community it has built over the years.

Despite facing challenges, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the BIG Salsa Festival has remained resilient. The festival adapted to changing circumstances, ensuring that the spirit of salsa and community continued to thrive. Today, the BIG Salsa Festival is recognized as a premier event in the salsa dance scene, known for its high-energy performances, diverse workshops, and the opportunity it provides for dancers to connect and celebrate their passion for salsa. With upcoming editions planned in New York and Cancun, the festival is poised to continue its legacy as a cornerstone of the salsa community.