West Jordan Dance Troupe Showcases Colombian Culture at New York Hispanic Day Parade
September 24, 2025 | by magnews24.com

Colombian Dance Group Carnaval de Barranquilla Utah to Showcase Heritage at New York City Hispanic Day Parade
West Jordan, Utah — What began as an intimate gathering among friends in a living room in West Valley City has blossomed into a vibrant dance collective, Carnaval de Barranquilla Utah, dedicated to celebrating and promoting Colombian culture throughout Utah and beyond. As the group prepares for a high-profile performance at the upcoming Hispanic Day Parade in New York City this October, its members are enthusiastic about representing the rich traditions of Colombia’s Caribbean coast to a broader audience.
Marilyn Gallardo, a co-director of the group, expressed her excitement, stating, “It’s a dream come true. We’re very excited to represent Colombia out there.” This sentiment encapsulates the group’s mission, which aims to bring the festive spirit of Colombia’s famed Barranquilla Carnival—a celebration renowned for its music, vibrant parades, and distinctive dances—to local stages in the U.S.
The Barranquilla Carnival, recognized as one of the world’s largest and most significant carnivals, boasts a history spanning back to the 19th century and showcases the rich cultural tapestry of Colombia. Taking place over four days, this event attracts thousands of participants and spectators alike, who revel in the colorful pageantry and rhythmic performances.
For directors Gallardo and Mayra Rincon, who hail from Barranquilla, the dance group provides a crucial outlet for cultural expression and connectivity. Rincon remarked, “I was missing that… We thought, ‘We’re not in Barranquilla, let’s celebrate the carnival here.’” This vision culminated in the formation of the group in 2022, which initially consisted of a few families eager to maintain and share their cultural traditions. Since its inception, the ensemble has grown to over 20 dedicated members, demonstrating a communal commitment to preserving their heritage through shared artistic expression.
Carnaval de Barranquilla Utah emphasizes the importance of family participation, inviting parents and children alike to engage in the dance. Rincon highlighted this intergenerational aspect, stating, “We have families—dad, mom, and kids are dancing, and that’s amazing. It’s something they’re enjoying as a family.”
To facilitate their participation in the Hispanic Day Parade, the group has initiated a GoFundMe campaign aimed at covering travel costs for all 22 members. “We’re doing it from the bottom of our hearts,” Rincon noted. “Bringing the culture, sharing with people—that’s the point of this group.”
As Carnaval de Barranquilla Utah embarks on this exciting journey to showcase Colombian culture on a national stage, the group hopes to inspire others in the community to embrace and celebrate their own cultural backgrounds, fostering a spirit of inclusivity and appreciation for diverse heritages.
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