There's something irresistible about the combination of steamy weather and Latin music. It makes even the most glued-to-the-wall flower unable to stifle a hip shimmy and a grin. The heat and the beats are sure to be present at this weekend's 38th Annual Puerto Rican Festival. The three-day smorgasbord celebrates Puerto Rican culture with an emphasis on traditional cuisine and culture. Featured musical acts include Edwin Rivera, Grupo Fuego, Son Del Barrio, Grupo Calle Uno, and Orquesta Antonetti.

The Puerto Rican Parade will begin Saturday, August 4, at 11:30 a.m. and run from Don Samuel Torres Park to Frontier Field. The Puerto Rican Festival, held at the Frontier Field VIP Parking lot, runs Friday, August 3, noon-11 p.m., with after hours activities at the Flat Iron Café, 561 State Street; Saturday, August 4, noon-11 p.m., with after hours at Club NV, 123 Liberty Pole Way; and Sunday, August 5, noon-9:30 p.m. Three-day discount passes are $20, and are available at Rivera's Market, 258 Bay Street, or Cash King, 1144 North Clinton Avenue. Regular admission is $9/day, $5 for seniors and children, and kids under 5 are free. Visit www.prfestival.com for complete details.