LOS ANGELES — Music, face painting, food and exotic animals were the highlights of this year’s Latino Heritage Celebration, held this past weekend at the Los Angeles Zoo.

Gina Dartt, promotion coordinator for the L.A. Zoo, said this event is in its 10th year of highlighting the importance of Latin America. She explained the event first began as a Mexican celebration of the independence of Mexico. One year later, the zoo changed the event to include all Latino countries.

“I think it’s very festive and it honors all the Latin cultures through music, art and dance, as well as highlighting the animals from Latin America,” Dartt said.

There were 19 different species of animals from all over the Latin countries and cultures, according to a program guide. An Andean condor was one of the birds being exhibited. Other animals included two different kinds of monkeys—spider and howler—and two different kinds of cats, the jaguar and golden lion tamarin.

Groups of dancers and musicians showcased their talents as well. Four groups—Mariachi Divas, Brazilian group L.A. Choro Ensemble, Inca from Peru and Ballet Folklorico of Mexico—brought traditional music and dance to the general public.

There was even face paintings for kids, as well as traditional art and crafts. Disney sponsored the event.