PIX11, in association with 21 Events, will broadcast live from the iconic 116th Street Festival in East Harlem on June 13 from 1 to 5 p.m., showcasing a lineup of legendary and emerging Latin music artists. The event, held at the heart of El Barrio, aims to celebrate the rich musical heritage of the Latino community while introducing audiences to the next generation of performers.
One of the highlights of the program will be a special tribute to salsa icon Willie Colón, featuring performances by Luis Damon and Papote Jiménez. The tribute will culminate with a special appearance by Grammy Award-winning artist Roberto Blades, who will perform the classic anthem "La Murga." The tribute honors Colón's influence on Latin music history.
The PIX11 Stage will also welcome Tito Puente Jr., who continues the legacy of his legendary father, Tito Puente, by introducing new generations to the rhythms that made the Puente name synonymous with Latin music worldwide. Additionally, freestyle and Latin music icon Safire will return to her roots; raised in Spanish Harlem just blocks from the festival grounds, this marks the first time she will perform in the neighborhood where her musical journey began. Safire is also preparing for 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, De La Fe has performed alongside Celia Cruz, Tito Puente, Willie Colón, Héctor Lavoe, Eddie Palmieri, and the Fania All-Stars.
The lineup also includes 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 and we at PIX11 are proud to broadcast this excitement to fans throughout the Tri-State area," said Michael Schwartz, Director of Sales for PIX11.
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 PIX 11."
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.
