Veterans honored for their service by visitors who also enjoyed a mild Summer day featuring mariachi music, folklorico performance, dancing, Mexican food and more.

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces honored the region’s Hispanic roots by celebrating the seventh annual “Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada — Mariachi and Folklorico Festival” on Saturday, Aug. 20, 2022 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church south of downtown Flagstaff

The free event drew more than 250 people with the entertainment stage featuring El Mariachi Tapatio de Tucson, dance music by La Banda Las Catrinas from Tucson, Ballet Folklorico de Colores de Flagstaff.

The highlight of the event included the presentation of certificates honoring the service of all veterans who attended the celebration.

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 was the premier sponsor, supported by the Coconino Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC).

During the event, Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces thanked all sponsors, individuals and organizations that contributed to the successful event (see full list below).

Following the Tardeada, a Mass, with a musical performance, was held at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church on Sunday, Aug. 21, followed by a menudo/posole breakfast.

The 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.

Visit www.flagstaffnuestrasraices.org or send an email to president@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org or info@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org for more information.