Historic Change: An Evening Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Celia Cruz

Celebrate the life and legacy of Celia Cruz, the legendary queen of salsa, with a night of music, dance and culture at the National Museum of American History. The evening event kicks off with a short program to commemorate the 2024 Celia Cruz Quarter, the 14th coin in the US Mint’s American Women Quarters Program™, and culminates in a dance party.  

Events and activities organized by the Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Latino, the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, and the United States Mint include: a special presentation from the United States Mint to Celia Cruz's family, a short panel conversation moderated by Anamaria Sayre of NPR's Alt. Latino with Latino history and salsa music experts Ariana Curtis, Ph.D., Frances Aparicio, Ph.D., and Linda Pritchett, Celia Cruz's niece, objects out of storage related to Celia Cruz's career, salsa dance lessons with expert salsera (salsa dancer) Noelia Garcia, tours and other activities throughout the evening, and a closing dance party with Lulada Club, an all-woman salsa band.

Latino cuisine, featuring the rich flavors of Caribbean heritage, and a cash bar will be available. New and longtime fans of Celia Cruz will appreciate the lively and engaging celebration of her enduring impact on music and culture. Registration is highly recommended. ASL Interpretation will be available throughout the program. For more information, contact [email protected].