On October 13, 2009, the White House hosted "Fiesta Latina" music night on the South Lawn. This was the third event in a musical event series launched by First Lady Michelle Obama, and celebrated Latin musical heritage. In his remarks at the event, President Barack Obama said of the genre: " In the end, what makes Latin music great is the same thing that's always made America great -- the unique ability to celebrate our differences while creating something new ."

President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama arrive on the South Lawn for the Fiesta Latina music night.

Actor Jimmy Smits -- who played the president of the United States on The West Wing -- attended the event.

Mexican pop singer Thalia.

Three-time Grammy Award-winning rock band Los Lobos.

Performers Pete Escovedo and Sheila E.

Performers Marc Anthony and Jennifer Lopez

Actress Eva Longoria Parker

President Obama said that Latin music " moves us, and it tends to make us move a little bit ourselves ."

Comedian George Lopez and actress Eva Longoria Parker hosted Fiesta Latina. They suggested that President Obama is really Latino, just doesn't know it. Added Lopez: The President " lives in a house that's not his...says he's gonna change and nobody believes him -- very Latino ."

Gloria Estefan and Jose Feliciano perform at the event

Sheila E. also takes the stage with Estefan

Rep. Nydia Velazquez (D-NY) was among audience members on the South Lawn of the White House

Rep. Ruben Hinojosa (D-TX) speaks to U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar before the performances begin.

Malia and Sasha Obama whisper in the audience during the performance

Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor.

Among those performing at the Fiesta Latina on Tuesday were, foreground from left, Sheila E., Gloria Estefan and José Feliciano.