The first annual New Orleans Latin Jazz Fest is going to be held on the 5th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. The concert is being put on by a Latin cultural center and café, Casa Borrega, that is supposed to be opening soon in Central City. The event will be held this Saturday night from 9:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. at the Zeitgeist Multidisciplinary Arts Center.

Latin jazz band Otra.

The festival features a large bill of 25 Latin Jazz artists, including Mas Mamones, Otra, Fredy Omar, Sasha Masakowski, and Tres Amigos (made up of guitarist Steve Masakowski, bassist James Singleton and percussionist Hector Gallardo) and more performing their harmonious rhythms in homage to the significant contribution of Latino immigrants to the reconstruction of the city. The festival brings together New Orleans music with sounds stemming from Cuba and other Spanish-speaking nations. The festival celebrates how the Spanish speaking communities have helped form our region and enrich our culture.

Entry is $10. Imported beer, tortas, mojitos, tacos al pastor, and other Latin treats will be available. Profits will assist Global Green, an organization helping to rebuild New Orleans as a green and sustainable city. The organization supports energy efficiency, renewable energy and affordable green homes and schools.