Steet Ponte VW Sponsors Mesta Fiesta: A Celebration of Latino Culture at Utica Zoo

Steet Ponte Volkswagen was delighted to sponsor the inaugural Mesta Fiesta, a joyful community event presented by El Zorro Radio Latino, the Mohawk Valley Latino Association, and the Utica Zoo. Hosted amidst the playful atmosphere of the Utica Zoo’s Dinosaur Discovery exhibit, Mesta Fiesta celebrated Latino heritage with food, music, and family fun galore.

What Happened at Mesta Fiesta

Attendees enjoyed a packed lineup of activities including:

• Mariachi band “Los Trios Caveles”, whose music filled the air with lively melodies.
• Tacos Don Fernando, serving up delicious local favorites from their food truck.
• A children’s parade, where dressed-up kids marched along and received free future zoo tickets—bringing smiles all around.
• Full access to the Utica Zoo, including ambassador animal presentations and the exciting Dino Discovery with more than a dozen interactive animatronic dinosaurs sprinkled throughout the zoo grounds.Utica ZooOneida County Tourism

El Zorro Radio Latino’s owner, Mindy Barstein, shared her passion for unity, noting: “One of our missions … is to bring ‘Unity to the Community,’ and this continues to bring different cultures together.” Data USAEl Zorro Radio Meanwhile, Utica Zoo Director Andria Heath emphasized the zoo’s role as a welcoming, inclusive destination for families across the Mohawk Valley.Data USA

A Spotlight on El Zorro Radio Latino

• El Zorro Radio Latino is the only full-format Latino radio station serving Central New York, broadcasting on 98.3 FM, 103.3 FM, 1420 AM, and 1450 AM.El Zorro RadioWikipedia
• The station plays a vital role in amplifying Latino culture and connecting communities across the Utica–Rome area.TuneInEl Zorro Radio

The Latino Community—A Vital Part of Utica

• As of recent data, around 14–14.6% of Utica’s residents identify as Hispanic or Latino—a significant presence enriching the community.Data USANeilsberg
• Latino communities have long been part of the region’s fabric, contributing to its vibrant cultural and social landscape.Utica University

The Utica Zoo & Dino Discovery—Family and Fun Combined

• The Dino Discovery exhibit, running through mid-October, brings over a dozen lifelike animatronic dinosaurs to the zoo—complete with movement, sound, and even water-spray effects.Utica ZooOneida County Tourism
• It’s the perfect backdrop for a family-friendly festival celebrating culture, community, and curiosity.

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Why We’re Proud to Be a Sponsor

At Steet Ponte VW, we believe in supporting events that enrich our community—especially those that honor diversity, creativity, and togetherness. Mesta Fiesta embodied all of that and more. From the mariachi beats to the dinosaur roars, the event brought families and cultures together in joy and celebration. We were honored to be part of it and look forward to seeing this festival grow in years to come.

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