PIX11, in association with 21 Events, will present a live broadcast of the 116th Street Festival in East Harlem on June 13, 2026, from 1 to 5 p.m., showcasing a diverse lineup of Latin music performers. The event, held annually at the iconic 116th Street Festival grounds, aims to celebrate the rich musical heritage of the Latino community while introducing audiences to emerging artists.
One of the highlights of the PIX11 Stage 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 Colón's influence on 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 will return to her roots, performing for the first time in the neighborhood where her musical journey began. Safire is also preparing for the release of her Spanish-language album in August 2026.
Internationally acclaimed violinist Alfredo De La Fe will celebrate his 60th anniversary in music at the festival. Recognized as the first solo violinist to perform with a salsa orchestra, he has performed alongside Celia Cruz, Tito Puente, Willie Colón, Héctor Lavoe, Eddie Palmieri, and the Fania All-Stars.
Other performers 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 blend 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 116 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. The event is presented by PIX11 in association with 21 Events.
The festival underscores the enduring impact of Latin music on New York City's cultural landscape, offering a platform for both legendary artists and rising stars to connect with audiences in person and via broadcast.
