PIX11, in association with 21 Events, will present a live celebration of Latin music at the iconic 116th Street Festival in East Harlem on June 13th from 1-5 p.m. The event, broadcast live on PIX11, will feature a lineup of legendary performers and rising stars, reflecting the rich musical heritage of the Latino community while introducing audiences to the next generation of artists.
A highlight of the festival will be a special tribute to salsa icon Willie Colón, featuring performances by Luis Damon and Papote Jiménez. The tribute will culminate with Grammy Award-winning artist Roberto Blades performing the classic anthem “La Murga,” honoring one of the most influential figures in Latin music history. Tito Puente Jr. will also perform, continuing the legacy of his legendary father and introducing new generations to the rhythms that made the Puente name synonymous with Latin music worldwide.
Freestyle and Latin music icon Safire, raised in Spanish Harlem just blocks from the festival grounds, will return to her roots for a special performance. This marks the first time she will perform in the neighborhood where her musical journey began, ahead of the release of her highly anticipated Spanish-language album in August 2026.
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.
Additional performances include 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.
“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.”
Ralph Paniagua, Managing Director of 21 Events, added, “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 116th Street Festival live on PIX11.”
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 preserving and promoting Latin music heritage while fostering new talent for future generations.
