September 16 marks the beginning of the Mexican War of Independence. Learn more about this day with activities for the entire family. Various hands-on art, garden, and culinary workshops will be part of the day’s activities, plus DJ music throughout the day. Food and beverages will be available for sale. 

Fiestas Patrias are Latin American holidays marking each country’s independence from European rule. In Mexico, celebrations start September 15 with the President ringing a historic bell and reciting El Grito de la Independencia (the cry for independence) in Mexico City.

Just like Mexico, every Latin American country celebrates their independence in their own way! Every celebration is special, unique, and full of pride. Join us to honor freedom, culture, and tradition!

PROGRAM SCHEDULE

12–4 pm –Workshops

12:15 pm – DJ Curator

1:30 – Neiya Arts

2 pm – Las Marimbas del Valle

3 pm – Salesian Mariachi

4 pm – Event ends

ENTERTAINMENT

Neiya Arts

Founded in 2015, Neiya Arts is a contemporary folklorico dance group based out of Carson, California. It adds an element of history and storytelling, allowing students to understand the dance and build appreciation.

DJ Curator

Chris Gutiérrez has been curating sonic soundscapes since the early 1980s, engaging audiences through immersive and nostalgic cinema-inspired sound experiences.

Las Marimbas Del Valle

WORKSHOPS

Participate in the activities and collect at least four stamps. When you are done, turn in your completed Guide for a special book giveaway.

¡Viva el Axolotl!: Printmaking and Painting

Learn about the resilience of the axolotl, one of Mexico’s iconic native species, while making your own watercolor art. This workshop is facilitated by Ni Santas, a women of color art collective.

¡Viva el Papel Amate!: Bookmark-Making

Explore the history of amate paper, while making your own handmade bookmark to take home as a celebration of Mexico’s rich art traditions.

¡Vivan las Flores!: Zinnia Seed-Collecting

Grow your own garden with vibrant zinnias! Search for, collect, and prepare seeds to plant at home. This workshop is facilitated by Marlene Aguilar, urban gardener and traditional cook.

¡Viva LA Plaza!: 15 Years of Cultura, Comunidad y Corazón

LA Plaza is celebrating its quinceañera, and we want you to be part of the celebration. Add a flower to our memory wall.

VENDORS

Tamales Veracruz y Más

Sammy’s Elotes y Más

Celebrate 15 Years of Cultura, Comunidad y Corazón. Support LA Plaza now—donate now!

Admission Policy
While advance RSVP is recommended, entry is subject to capacity. Walk-ins will be accommodated as space permits.

Parking
Planning your visit? Explore parking options near LA Plaza.

Photo and Media Consent
By participating in this program, you consent to LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes using photographs taken of you for advertising, promotional, and marketing purposes.

Newsletter
Want to stay in the loop about our events and programs?
Sign up for our newsletter!