Salsa Legend Jose Alberto "El Canario" to Kick Off 2025 Puerto Rican Festival in Rochester

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — The 2025 Puerto Rican Festival is just around the corner, and organizers are launching it with a night full of music, culture and community.

The festival opens Thursday, July 31, at Innovative Field, with a headline performance by salsa icon Jose Alberto "El Canario." Known for his dynamic performances and signature whistling, Jose Alberto has been a pillar of the salsa scene for decades. His vibrant energy is expected to turn Rochester’s summer night into a celebration of dance and tradition.

The opening night lineup also includes performances by:

• Ecos Borincanos, showcasing traditional Puerto Rican folk music.

• Borinquen Dance Theatre, Rochester’s own cultural dance troupe.

• Banda Light, delivering high-energy Latin beats.

Location: Innovative Field (formerly Frontier Field), One Morrie Silver Way, Rochester, N.Y.

Time: Gates open at 5 p.m., with performances beginning shortly after.

Admission is free on Thursday night.

Festival organizers encourage attendees to come early, bring their flags and friends, and prepare for a weekend celebrating Puerto Rican heritage and pride. Rochester’s Puerto Rican Festival, a tradition since 1969, will feature live music, authentic food vendors, cultural showcases and family-friendly activities throughout the weekend.

Early bird VIP tickets for the remainder of the weekend are available now at www.prfestival.com or via the festival’s Instagram link.

Vamos pa' la fiesta, Rochester! For more information, visit www.prfestival.com.