Thousands of people are celebrating Boricua pride and culture at the 53rd annual Jersey City Puerto Rican Heritage Festival, which is in full swing at Exchange Place on the Jersey City waterfront.

There's food vendors, temporary tattoo stands, and a bounce house for kids. Succulent dishes such as pernil (roasted pork) is giving the air a heavenly scent. And there is a lot of salsa dancing going on with the Manhattan skyline as the backdrop.



The grand marshal for today's Jersey City Puerto Rican Heritage Parade, Abraham Lopez, is taking in the festival with his family. Lopez, a Jersey City resident, was named by Gov. Christie executive director of the Center for Hispanic Policy, Research, and Development in June 2011.

"I think the organizers chose me, as an example, that a Jersey City kid from Greenville can go to college (New Jersey City University) and if you're willing to work hard it's all possible," said Lopez. "I look forward to seeing families together in a safe place, where we can all celebrate. It's amazing to see over 5,000 people here."



Salsa legend Ismael Miranda will be capping off the two-day festival, which wraps up at 10 p.m. tonight.



Union official Milly Silva, the lieutenant governor pick of state Sen. Barbara Buono, the Democrat running against Christie for governor, briefly addressed the crowd. Speaking in English and Spanish, Silva, who is of Puerto Rican decent, received a huge ovation.

Several motorcycle clubs turned out to the party. Dona V., a member of the "Dead Serious" motorcycle club, said she's been attending this event for 20 years.

"There were no bikers in this parade or festival, but the food is amazing and it's a peaceful turnout," she said.

Waiting in line at one of the food stations, Jersey City resident Alan Aragon said, "I've been coming here for six years with my beautiful wife. I'm from Nicaragua and she's Puerto Rican. I love the food, especially the pernil. This event is lovely."

The Bronx was in the house as well.

"I'm from the Bronx and I've seen the New York Puerto Rican Day Parade," said Janette Rodriguez. "It's similar, but it's better in Jersey City. It's not as crazy. The food and music are always great anywhere. I'll be coming back next year for sure."