Kansas City’s Guadalupe Centers' 100th Cinco de Mayo celebration is this weekend
Leo Prieto of the Guadalupe Centers of Kansas City says the events will be a reflection of the rich Latino history in the area.
"It was one of the first places that a lot of the Mexican immigrants settled in, whether they were working in the stockyards, on the railroads, and so forth," Preito says
He says 100 years ago it was a much smaller event. This weekend, 10,000 people are expected to enjoy Latino food and entertainment. Prieto says this year is a significant anniversary.
"In 1926, we actually had one of the first fiestas, Cinco de Mayos, in the whole Midwest. And 100 years later, here we are." Prieto explains.
Prieto says it all started with a commitment to preserving cultural traditions.
"People are really focused and really want to continue to share those traditions and keep those alive because they're meaningful, they're important, and they're very significant in the economic development of Kansas City," Prieto says
The annual event takes place in Kansas City’s historic west side today and tomorrow.
Missourinet