08/28/2025
Dear DBF Community,
It has been a difficult year with the loss of my son and other family challenges. At one point, I was ready to cancel this year’s festival, but our great community—and my kids, Michael, Michelle, Brandon, and Vanessa—encouraged me to move forward and use this as a healing process.
After eight weeks of nonstop work, this past week has finally been one of rest and recovery. I would not have been able to do it without the incredible support of the Denver Bachata Festival staff.
Kizmara Zaire, la Jefa, who jumped in and lifted me out of my depression and gave me the strength to continue. To Reychata, Juan Mejia, Alejandra Gomez, Alejandra Fontao, Daniel Lappost, Chava Curiel, Giovanni and Natalia, Denver and Carina, Fafa Baglorie, Chad Schneider, Krizia and Robert, Julie Berry, and Hector Arias—thank you from the bottom of my heart. You are the Denver Bachata Festival.
A huge shout-out also goes to our volunteer team: Joan Montolia, Marian Hoponomo, Katia, Avdi, Kristel, Ethel, Adrian Báez, Denise , Patricia, Cope, and William Torres. (Apologies if I forgot anyone.)
To our artists, thank you for embracing and joining our community, and for creating such an unforgettable experience. I’ve received so many positive comments about how welcoming our city is.
To our vendors—especially Maya Shoes—thank you. Jiory’s concert was off the charts with so much energy! The pool parties were incredible; big thanks to Sensual Movement, Anna and Hairo Sime for your support.
Thanks also to Jamal and Blue Ice Lounge for hosting our pre-party. The performances were amazing, and I’m so grateful to the dance schools who support this event: CNS, Bachata Lovers, Fontao Fusion, Black Belt Salsa, Metta Dance Company, Bachata Denver, Dynamic Dance Company, and Samba Colorado.
My heart is overflowing with joy, and my soul is healing because of all of you. Here in Denver, we truly have the best dance community in the world.
I love you all, and I can’t wait for next year.
Somos Bachata,
Juan Gomez
Director - Denver Bachata Festival
