Free event, which has drawn upwards of 400 guests, provides cultural education to community, honors all veterans in region. Mariachi Mass to be held at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church on Aug. 21.
FLAGSTAFF — To celebrate and recognize Flagstaff’s Hispanic roots, Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces will present its 7th annual “Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada — Mariachi and Folklorico Festival” from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 20 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 224 S. Kendrick St., Flagstaff.
The event is FREE, open to the public and has drawn upwards of 400 visitors in past years.
What is a Tardeada? It’s a vibrant afternoon festival and social dance celebrating Flagstaff’s Hispanic culture and community history. The Coconino County Board of Supervisors has served as the premier sponsor at past events.
The festival’s goal is to celebrate the legacy of Flagstaff’s Hispanic culture through entertainment, music, dance, art, food and exhibits. Veterans of all cultural backgrounds and their families are encouraged to to attend so they can participate in the traditional group photo and receive their veterans recognition certificates.
The entertainment stage will feature Mariachi performers, Ballet Folklorico de Colores – Flagstaff and a variety of dance music, Mexican and regular barbeque food will be sold as a fundraiser for the Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces’ Cultural Heritage Fund.
Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church is a significant historic site because it was the pride and centerpiece of the Hispanic community when it was built in the late 1920s by Flagstaff Hispanic pioneer families, who had strong bonds to the church.
A Mariachi Mass is traditionally held the following Sunday, (11 a.m. Aug. 21) at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.
The public is invited to both events.
For more information, www.flagstaffnuestrasraices.org or send an email to president@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org or info@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org for more information.