NEW YORK, NY — PIX11, in association with 21 Events, will present a live celebration of Latin music at the 116th Street Festival on June 13, from 1 to 5 p.m., at the iconic festival in East Harlem. The event, carried live by the television station, will feature a lineup of legendary performers and rising stars, underscoring the enduring cultural significance of Latin music in the community.
One of the highlights of the program will be a special tribute to salsa icon Willie Colón, featuring performances by Luis Damon and Papote Jiménez, culminating with a special appearance by Grammy Award-winning artist Roberto Blades performing the classic anthem "La Murga." This tribute honors one of the most influential figures in Latin music history and reflects the festival's role in preserving and celebrating musical heritage.
The PIX11 Stage will also welcome Tito Puente Jr., who continues the legacy of his legendary father, introducing new generations to the rhythms that made the Puente name synonymous with Latin music worldwide. Freestyle and Latin music icon Safire will return to her roots for her first performance in the neighborhood where her musical journey began, blocks from the festival grounds. Safire is also preparing for the release of her highly anticipated Spanish-language album in August 2026.
"As one of New York City’s most celebrated cultural events, the 116th Street Festival continues to serve as a gathering place where music, heritage, and community come together in the heart of El Barrio," said Michael Schwartz, Director of Sales for PIX11. "We at PIX11 are proud to broadcast this excitement to fans throughout the Tri-State area."
Internationally acclaimed violinist Alfredo De La Fe will bring his signature sound to the festival as he celebrates his 60th anniversary in music. Recognized as the first solo violinist to perform with a salsa orchestra, Alfredo has performed alongside Celia Cruz, Tito Puente, Willie Colón, Héctor Lavoe, Eddie Palmieri, and the Fania All-Stars. The celebration will also feature performances by Colombian singer-songwriter Yuri Toro, former vocalist of Grupo Niche; veteran salsa vocalist Frankie Morales; Panama’s Willie Panamá, known as "The King of Salsa Rap"; New York-based salsa project Fuego Taibori featuring lead vocalist David Sanchez; and emerging Bronx-based duo CRILL & CLOS, who represent a new generation of bilingual artists blending Latin, pop, and urban influences.
"For the 21 Events Team, we are honored to bring together so many talented artists to present their music to the live audience at the 122 Street Stage and to broadcast the 41st Annual 116 Street Festival live on PIX11," said Ralph Paniagua, Managing Director of 21 Events. The PIX11 Stage is produced by Ralph Paniagua, with musical production by Luis Miguel Cruz, co-production and music licensing by Martha Cancel, stage management by Pioantonio Ventura, and artist relations coordinated by Manuel Soba.
Presented by PIX11 in association with 21 Events, the festival underscores the importance of community events in celebrating cultural diversity and musical innovation. For more information, visit PIX11.
