Oak Park’s village hall was all sun and smiles on Saturday with the annual ¡Viva! Festival.
The diversity, equity and inclusion office of Oak Park’s village government hosted the event on the South Lawn celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with live performances, food, local businesses and fun games.
The vibrant day was a stark juxtaposition to the event being cancelled last year due to the increased presence of federal immigration officers. Kellye Keyes, chief DEI officer, said this year was “extra special.”
“Viva celebrates the histories, cultures, creativity, and contributions of the Hispanic and Latino communities,” said Keyes during a speech at the event. “That includes people right here in Oak Park whose work, ideas, businesses, families, community involvement all help shape the place we call home.”
Alma Martinez greets attendees of Oak Park’s ¡Viva! Festival on Oct. 10, 2026. Credit: Sydney Lovan 
Calpulli Ocelotl-Cihuacoatl, a traditional Aztec dance group, performs at Oak Park’s ¡Viva! Festival on Oct. 10, 2026. Credit: Sydney Lovan 
Event organizers and volunteers hand out food at ¡Viva! Festival on Oct. 10, 2026, in Oak Park. Credit: Sydney Lovan 
People dance during musical performances at ¡Viva! Festival on Oct. 10, 2026, in Oak Park. Credit: Sydney Lovan 
A vendor paints attendees faces at Oak Parks ¡Viva! Festival on Oct. 10, 2026. Credit: Sydney Lovan 
Flags representing many different Hispanic countries line the south lawn of Oak Park’s village hall for ¡Viva! Festival on Oct. 10, 2026. Credit: Sydney Lovan 
Oak Park Chief DEI Officer Kellye Keyes speaks at Oak Park’s ¡Viva! Festival on Oct. 10, 2026. Credit: Sydney Lovan
She said she appreciates events such as this one because they allow people to “slow down” and connect with one another.
“Today gives us an opportunity to appreciate the richness and learn something new about one another,” said Keyes. “Even when we share a language or a cultural connection, our experiences are often extremely different. Make room for these differences, that will help us all grow.”
Calpulli Ocelotl-Cihuacoatl, one of the performance groups at the event, highlighted Aztec culture and tradition through ceremonial dance and music. Founder Rosa Gaytán said the group is open and accepting of everyone, and the dance is a prayer.
“These ways from our ancestors are the best ways to be connected with them and receive all those messages that we need to continue with this struggling in this world,” said Gaytán. “We are proud to show that we continue with the legacy.”