Welcome to Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces. We are dedicated to promoting Hispanic culture and history through events, gatherings, the performing and visual arts. To further this purpose Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces draws on the Arizona Hispanic family stories, history, traditions and talents as tools for cultural transmission. We are a 501©3 nonprofit organization. For more information, send an email to info@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org

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Tickets on sale now for annual Cinco de Mayo Dance in Flagstaff featuring Los Alambrados

FLAGSTAFF — The American Legion Auxiliary and Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces will present their annual Cinco de Mayo Dance, featuring Los Alambrados, from 7 to 11 p.m. Saturday, May 4 at the American Legion Mark A. Moore Post 3, 204 W. Birch Ave., Flagstaff.

Tickets are $20 per person / $35 per couple.

Contact American Legion Post 3 at FlagstaffAL3@Gmail.com or call 928-774-7682 for tickets, more information

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Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces / Museum of Northern Arizona among finalists named for 2024 Viola Awards by Creative Flagstaff

By AmigosNAZ.com

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff Nuestras Raices & the Museum of Northern Arizona: 20^thAnnual Celebraciones de la Gente has been selected as a 2024 Viola Awards Finalists for the Excellence in Collaboration category by Creative Flagstaff.

The winners of the category will be announced on March 23, 2024 at the Orpheum Theatre in downtown Flagstaff.

The 20th anniversary annual Celebraciones de la Gente — Día de los Muertos / Day of the Dead festival was held Oct. 21, 22 at the Museum of Northern Arizona.

The event, a partnership between Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces and the Museum of Northern Arizona, featured the return of the the ever-popular InTlanextli Tlacopan Aztec Fire Dancers, Ballet Folklorico de Colores — Flagstaff, El Charro Bohemia, sugar skull and other workshops, and the display of nearly two dozen ofrendas/altars in the historic Jaime Golightly Courtyard.

Click here to see a slideshow of photos from the event.

Please see entire media release below

By Creative Flagstaff

Congratulations 2024 Viola Awards Finalists & Klee Benally as Legacy Award Recipient

Creative Flagstaff is pleased to announce the Finalists and Legacy Award Recipient for the 16^th Annual Viola Awards. The Viola Awards celebrate excellence in the arts and sciences in Flagstaff, Arizona. 42 finalists are recognized across 10 categories, with some finalists being recognized in multiple categories. All finalists will be honored at the event on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at the Orpheum Theater in historic downtown Flagstaff.

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/16th-annual-viola-awards-tickets-825751574187

(Full list of finalists below).

Creative Flagstaff is honored to recognize Klee Benally as the 2024 The Babbitt Brothers Foundation Viola Legacy Award recipient. Klee passed away in December of 2023. During his life, he fought tirelessly in defense of the land, against injustices, and in support of indigenous communities which was the foundation for his creative practice and artistry. He was an Indigenous anarchist, visual and performing artist, writer, and musician. He published “No Spiritual Surrender: Indigenous Anarchy in Defense of the Sacred” in November 2023. He played with Blackfire, which he formed with his brother and sister when he was 14 until 2012 and he recorded a solo album in 2013. He also formed “Appropriation” around 2017 which released 1 album. Klee was heavily involved with organizations and projects such as; Indigenous Action, Taala Hooghan Info Shop, Kinlani Mutual Aid, and Out Your Backpack Media. He also created Burn the Fort, which is a game of Indigenous Resistance. Klee’s passion and creativity were endless, and he is an inspiration to us all.

This year nearly 150 nominations were sent to Creative Flagstaff from members of the Flagstaff Community. At the same time, nearly 30 members of the Flagstaff community applied to serve as a panelist for this year’s awards. Panelists have the important job of determining the finalists and winners of the event. Panels were assembled based on interest and expertise. Panels met in late January to select the official Finalists which were announced Friday, February 19, 2024.

Learn more about this year’s Viola Awards here: creativeflagstaff.org/viola/2024-viola-awards/

2024 Official Viola Award Finalists

Excellence in the Visual Arts

• Bryan David Griffith: Envision
• Paula Rice: Transformation & Transcendence 
• Nate Begay: Our Future, Told by the Past
• Jihan Gearon: Tricky

Excellence in the Performing Arts

• Ballet Folklórico de Colores: Paseo Navideno: A Christmas Journey Through Mexico
• The Cast of Dance Nation
• Stargazer Collaborative Theatre: Women of Broadway Cabaret
• Simon Says Theatre: Every Brilliant Thing

Excellence in Music

• iiwaa
• Tiny Bird
• Tow’rs
• Ryan Biter
• Pilcrowe

Excellence in Storytelling

• Mary Tolan: Mars Hill Murder
• Melissa Sevingy: Brave the Wild River
• Lawrence Lenhart: Backvalley Ferrets 
• Lydia Gates: Flagstaff Poetry Slam Host

Emerging Artist

• Brian Price
• Nathan Henderson
• Haley Jacobey
• Jonathan Cady

Excellence in Education

• Joe Maniglia
• Betsy Hamill
• Owen Davis

Excellence in Collaboration

• Diane Immethun & FSO: Deeper Soul of Picture Canyon
• Master Chorale & NAU Community Dance Academy: Venus & Adonis
• Interference Series
• Maya Scull & Jason Libby: Nightmare Over the Rainbow
• Flagstaff Nuestras Raices & Museum of Northern Arizona: 20^th Annual Celebraciones de la Gente

Community Impact (Individual)

• Emmett White
• Kimberly Robinson
• Caitlin Burd
• Wendy White

Community Impact (Organization)

• The Give Back
• Freaky Foot Tours
• Flagstaff Foundry
• Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra
• Northern Arizona Book Festival

Philanthropy Award

• Arizona Public Service
• Dark Sky Brewing
• Alice Christie
• L. Gore

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Did you attend our 2023 Celebraciones de la Gente? If so, can you please fill out our short survey so we can expand our funding sources to provide better programming for you in 2024. Click here Thank you.

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FLAGSTAFF — More than 100 luminarias surrounded Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Chapel as traditional music could be heard coming from inside during the annual Celebration Our Lady of Guadalupe held Dec. 12, 2023 in Flagstaff.

Participants to the Celebration met the previous evening at the chapel to take part in a procession to San Francisco de Asis Church on Route 66. After a scheduled brief stop at the Flagstaff Fire Dept.Station 2 for coffee and other drinks and sweets, participants walked up to the church watch a dance by Las Matachines de San Francisco de Asis, the Rosary (led by teens), a play and consecration to Mary.

At the celebration on Dec. 12 at the chapel, participants were greeted by the glow  luminaries surrounding the chapel. placed by members of  Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces.

The celebration included a Rosary, lead by Las Guadalupanas, followed by the presentation of Las Mañanitas, the Mass in English, with coffee, Mexican chocolate and pan dulce served in the church’s basement.

See photo slideshows and stories of previous Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebrations:

• 2022 — Flagstaff community holds Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebration
• 2019 — Luminarias shine bright during annual Our Lady of Guadalupe Festival in Flagstaff
• 2018 — Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebration held in Flagstaff
• 2017 — Flagstaff presents annual Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebration
• 2016 — Flagstaff holds Virgin of Guadalupe Celebration
• 2015 — Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces to participate again in the ‘Celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe’
• 2014 — Feast Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe to be celebrated with procession, luminaries, Mariachi Mass, community potluck on Dec. 11 & 12
• 2013 — Feast Day celebrated Dec. 11-12 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Flagstaff — See slideshow

See 2023 Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebration photos below

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Thank you all who supported and attended the 20th Annual Anniversary of Celebraciones de la Gente on Oct. 21-22, 2023 at the Museum of Northern Arizona.

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff Nuestras Raices offers a big THANK YOU to everyone who supported the 20th anniversary annual Celebraciones de la Gente — Día de los Muertos / Day of the Dead festival at the Museum of Northern Arizona on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 21 and 22.

The 2023 Celebraciones de la Gente is supported in part by the Arizona Commission on the Arts which receives support from the State of Arizona and the National Endowment for the Arts. Additional Premier Sponsors include Coconino County District 2 Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez and the Coconino County Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) and APS. Celebraciones presented in partnership with the Museum of Northern Arizona.

We will be adding more photos and videos from the event. Here’s a small sample.

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Sugar Skull Workshops online reservations selling out for the 20th Annual Anniversary of Celebraciones de la Gente on Oct. 21-22, 2023 at the Museum of Northern Arizona

The 2023 Celebraciones de la Gente is supported in part by the Arizona Commission on the Arts which receives support from the State of Arizona and the National Endowment for the Arts. Additional Premier Sponsors include Coconino County District 2 Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez and the Coconino County Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) and APS. Celebraciones presented in partnership with the Museum of Northern Arizona.

CLICK HERE to see www.AmigosNAZ.com photos from the 19th annual Celebraciones de la Gente held on Oct. 29, 30, 2022.

FLAGSTAFF — Sugar Skull Workshops online reservations are selling out for the 20th anniversary annual Celebraciones de la Gente — Día de los Muertos / Day of the Dead festival at the Museum of Northern Arizona on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 21 and 22.

Sugar Skull Decorating – reservations required

Decorating sugar skulls is a favorite activity for kids and families during Celebraciones. Nuestras Raices makes the sugar skulls and provides frosting and decorations. Since this is a very popular event that always sells out, we require pre-registration. That way you know your child’s sugar skull is waiting for them and what time to arrive. You will also need to purchase admission tickets for Celebraciones.

Cost – $5

SOLD OUT — Click here to reserve a sugar skull workshop on Saturday at 10:30.

Click here to reserve a sugar skull workshop on Saturday at 12:00. 

Click here to reserve a sugar skull workshop on Sunday at 10:30. 

Click here to reserve a sugar skull workshop on Sunday at 12:00. 

Celebraciones de la Gente is a partnership between Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces and the Museum of Northern Arizona, with generous funding of Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces’ programming by the Arizona Commission on the Arts, Coconino County District 2 Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez and the Coconino County Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC).

Celebraciones tickets are good for the entire weekend: $20 General Admission, $10 MNA members, $5 youth, kids age 9 and under free.

This year’s event features the return of the ever-popular InTlanextli Tlacopan Aztec Fire Dancers and Ballet Folklorico de Colores — Flagstaff performing on both days of the festival in the Branigar/Chase Discovery Center, along with daily performances in the historic Jaime Golightly Courtyard by El Charro Bohemia.

Celebrate the history and culture of Mexican, Mexican American and Latin@ communities in Northern Arizona at this annual fall event, which will include music, dance, food and heartfelt remembrances.

The museum’s Jaime Golightly Courtyard will be transformed into a beautiful lit setting, with intricately cut papel picado (pierced paper) and lovely arranged ofrendas (altars) to welcome past loved ones to the party.

On Saturday evening, the courtyard will stay open into the night, as the full impact of the candlelit ofrendas can be enjoyed, along with Mexican treats and soulful strolling Mariachis. Don’t miss this fall festival. Invite your friends and family, from this world and the next!

Some of the scheduled events each day include sugar skull-making workshops in the Patio (reservations required), performances by Ballet Folkorico de Colores — Flagstaff, and presentations on the the “History of Mariachi Music.”

Celebraciones de la Gente will be held from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 22.

The ever-moving Closing Ceremony (blessing of the altars/ofrendas) to be held at 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 22 immediately followed by the festival attendees group photo.

The schedule includes: 

Saturday, October 21

10:00 Museum Opens

10:15-11:00 am – Ofrendas 101 presentation by Nuestras Raices

10:30 – Sugar Skull Workshop (Patio) (reservations required here) SORRY, SOLD OUT

11:00-12:00 pm –Musical perform by El Charro Bohemio in the Courtyard

11:30 am – Puppet Show in Discovery Room

11:30 am – Calaveritas Literarias Workshop in Gallery

12:00 – Sugar Skull Workshop (Patio) (reservations required here)

12:00-5:00 pm – Face painting in the Courtyard

1-2 pm – Dance Performance by Ballet Folklorico de Colores de Flagstaff

1:00 – Sugar Skull Workshop (Patio) (reservations required here)

2:00-3:00 pm – The Musical Evolution of Mexico presentation and performance

3:30-4:30 pm – Aztec Fire Dancers (BCDC)

6:00-7:00pm – Musical performance by El Charro Bohemio in the Courtyard

All day in the Living Room – Silent Auction

Sunday, October 22

10:00 am – Celebraciones opens

10:15-11:00 am – Ofrendas 101 presentation by Nuestras Raices

10:30 am -11:30 am – Sugar Skull decorating (reservations required) 

11:00-1:00 pm – Musical perform by El Charro Bohemio in the Courtyard

11:30 am – Puppet Show in Discovery Room

11:30 am – Calaveritas Literarias Workshop in Gallery

12:00-1:00 pm –Sugar Skull decorating (reservations required) 

12:00-5:00 pm – Face painting in the Courtyard

1:00-2:00 pm – Dance Performance by Ballet Folklorico de Colores

2:00 – Musical Performance by Don Julio in the Courtyard

2:00-3:00 pm – The Musical Evolution of Mexico presentation and performance

3:30-4:30 pm – Aztec Fire Dancers

4:30 pm – Closing Ceremony in the Courtyard

All day in the Living Room – Silent Auction

The event will be held at:

Museum of Northern Arizona

3101 N Fort Valley Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

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Community members learn about Dia de Los Muertos ofrendas, customs during ‘Ofrenda 101’ and ‘Halloween vs. Día de los Muertos’ presentations at the Flagstaff Public Library

FLAGSTAFF — Library patrons had the opportunity to learn about Dia de Los Muertos ofrendas, the meaning behind items on a family altar and other cultural customs honoring the dearly departed during a session presented by Flagstaff Nuestras Raices at the Flagstaff Public Library on Oct. 5.

In preparation for its 20th annual Celebraciones de la Gente at the Museum of Northern Arizona on Oct. 21-22, Flagstaff Nuestras Raices has been presenting a series of information lectures for Coconino County employees and patrons at the Camp Verde Public Library.

Flagstaff Nuestras Raices President Lydia Anaya and treasurer Becca DeLapp presented the “Ofrenda 101” session, creating a temporary ofrenda in the library’s Community Room.
They presented information about the meaning behind the use of colored candles, marigold flowers, water, salt, and your loved ones favorite foods. Click here to see story and photos in www.AmigosNAZ.com

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Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces takes trip south to teach Ofrenda 101 lesson at Camp Verde Community Library

FLAGSTAFF — In preparation for upcoming Dia de Los Muertos celebrations in the region, members of Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces took a road trip south to teach an “Ofrenda 101” workshop at the Camp Verde Community Library on Sept. 15, 2023.

Community parents and children learned the basics of creating an ofrenda / altar, the placement of colored candles, family photos, favorite foods and other items on an ofrenda.

The library, which created its own ofrenda, is presenting a series of workshops and programs ahead of the annual Dia de Los Muertos Celebration from 1:30 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 5 at the Phillip England Community Arts Center, 210 Camp Lincoln Road, Camp Verde.

Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces will partner with the Museum of Northern Arizona to present the 20th Celebraciones de la Gente on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 21, 22.

Click here to see more photos at www.AmigosNAZ.com

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Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces takes part in:

Northern Arizona University kicks off the start of Hispanic Heritage Month on Sept. 15 with its inaugural Celebración de NAU

FLAGSTAFF — Northern Arizona University kicked off Hispanic Heritage Month with its inaugural Celebración de NAU held Friday, Sept. 15 at the NAU Field House.

Several hundred students, NAU faculty, staff and administration members, along with members of the pubic, attended the event which was moved inside due to storming weather.

Flagstaff Major Becky Dagger read the City’s Hispanic Heritage Month Proclamation, which was followed by dance performances by Ballet Folklórico de Colores — Flagstaff and a musical performance by Banda Latino Caribeña.

Dozens of information tables greeted visitors including those presented by the NAU First-Generation Program, the NAU Hispanic/Latine Leadership Program, the Latine Student Union, NAU Ethnic Student Program, Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces (supported by the Coconio Hispanic Advisory Council CHAC) and other organizations.

Click here to see more photos at www.AmigosNAZ.com

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Heavy rains didn’t dampen spirit at 8th annual Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces’ Summertime Tardeada on Aug. 12, 2023 in Flagstaff

Photos by Frank X. Moraga/ http://www.AmigosNAZ.com ©2023

FLAGSTAFF — Despite heavy afternoon monsoon rains, visitors continued to come by, dance, enjoy food, chat with vendors and listen to the music of Mariachi de Nuevo Mexico and Soul Persuasion during the 8th annual “Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada — Mariachi and Folklórico Festival” on Aug. 12 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.

Dancers from Ballet Folklorico de Colores – Flagstaff didn’t miss a step during the rainy day performance which drew upwards of 300 visitors.

This year’s Premier Sponsors are the Cococnino County Board of Supervisors and the Coconino County Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC).

The event Saturday was followed by the traditional Mariachi Mass held on Sunday Aug. 13 at the church.

Click here to see slideshow of photos

Click here for video on Mariachi de Neuvo Mexico

Click here for video dancing to Soul Persuasion 

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Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces to celebrate 8th annual Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada on Aug. 12, 2023

Mariachi de Nuevo Mexico, Soul Persuasion and Ballet Folklorico de Colores — Flagstaff to headline FREE event. Veterans are encouraged to attend so they can participate in the traditional group photo

FLAGSTAFF — To celebrate and recognize Flagstaff’s Hispanic roots, Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces invites the public to attend its 8th annual “Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada — Mariachi and Folklórico Festival” from noon to 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12, 2023 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. This year’s Premier Sponsors are the Cococnino County Board of Supervisors and the Coconino County Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC).

What is a Tardeada? It’s a vibrant afternoon festival and social dance celebrating Flagstaff’s Hispanic culture and community history.

The festival’s goal is to celebrate the legacy of Flagstaff’s Hispanic culture through entertainment, music, dance, art, food and exhibits. All veterans are encouraged to to attend so they can participate in the traditional group photo.

The entertainment stage will feature Mariachi de Nuevo Mexico from Phoenix, Ballet Folklorico de Colores – Flagstaff and dance music to conclude the celebration from Soul Persuasion from Phoenix.

A raffle. 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.

So for locals and visitors, escape triple-digit temperatures in the rest of the state, bring your lawn chairs and canopies and enjoy the cooler mountain breezes of Northern Arizona.

A Mariachi Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 13, 2023 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.

The public is invited to both events. Visit www.flagstaffnuestrasraices.org or send an email to president@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org or info@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org for more information.

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Flagstaff annual Cinco de Mayo celebration to be held May 5 at the American Legion

The Flagstaff annual Cinco de Mayo celebration will be held from 5:30 to 11 p.m. Friday, May 5 at the American Legion — Mark A Moore Post 3, 204 W. Birch Ave., Flagstaff.

Hosted by the Auxiliary and Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces, the event includes a dinner ($12) from 5 to 6:30 p.m., and the dance from 7 to 11 p.m.

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19th Annual Celebraciones de la Gente

Saturday and Sunday, October 29 – October 30

Museum of Northern Arizona 3101 N. Fort Valley Road, Flagstaff, AZ

The 19th Annual Celebraciones de la Gente Festival is an unparalleled opportunity to experience the history and culture of Mexican, Mexican American, and LatinX communities in Northern Arizona. Also known as the Day of the Dead, this event is a celebration of life, music, dance, food and heartfelt remembrances.

Throughout the weekend visitors can enjoy cultural dances and music, browse the intricately decorated Ofrendas that line the courtyard, and gain insights during presentations by cultural experts.

On Saturday evening the courtyard stays open into the evening so the full impact of the Ofrendas can be enjoyed, along with sweet treats and hot drinks.

Don’t miss this fall festival. Invite your friends and family, from this world and the next!

In partnership with Flagstaff Nuestras Raices

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Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces celebrates its 2022 Tardeada Festival, Mariachi Mass

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

Visit www.AmigosNAZ.com to see slideshows of photos and the entire story HERE

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.

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FLAGSTAFF — The Cinco de Mayo Celebration, dinner/dance will return at 5 p.m. Saturday, May 7 at The American Legion, 204 W. Birch Ave., Flagstaff.

Sponsored by The American Legion Auxiliary and Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces.

Dinner from 5 to 6:30 p.m., with the dance from 7 to 11 p.m. with live music by Cymbre.

Tickets: $20 single / $30 couple. Dinner: $12 combo plate.

Tickets available at The American Legion.

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Community celebrates in-person return of Celebraciones de la Gente

CLICK HERE to see photos from 2021 Celebraciones de la Gente

CLICK HERE to see photos from previous Celebraciones de la Gente

FLAGSTAFF — Celebraciones de la Gente, the annual Día de los Muertos / Day of the Dead celebration, returned to the Museum of Northern Arizona on Oct. 23-24 with an appreciative crowd who strolled around the historic Jaime Golightly Courtyard to view family ofrendas / altars, view workshops on creating ofrendas, a presentation honoring the more than 400 people who died due to COVID-19 in Coconino County, dance performances by Ballet Folklorico de Colores — Flagstaff and music by Mariachi Tradición de México from Tucson and Los Alambrados Flagstaff.

The 18th annual event, which was hosted by the Museum of Northern Arizona, in partnership with Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces, was presented virtually in 2020 due the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

“We’d like to thank everyone who helped make this celebration possible and to everyone who joined us yesterday and today to remember our family and friends!!,” museum officials stated on its Facebook site, which also featured a variety of photos and videos of the presentations.

A segment on the event was also aired this week on NAZ Today.

During the two-day event, museum’s Jaime Golightly Courtyard was transformed into a beautiful lit setting, with intricately cut papel picado (pierced paper) and lovely arrange ofrendas (altars) to welcome past loved ones to the party.

On Saturday evening the courtyard stayed open into the night, as the full impact of the candlelit ofrendas was be enjoyed, along with Mexican treats and soulful strolling Mariachis.

The Courtyard After Dark event on Oct. 23 included a candlelit ceremony honoring the memory of those who have lost their lives during the pandemic presented by members of Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces, with opening remarks by Museum of Northern Arizona Executive Director Mary Kershaw.

Celebraciones concluded with the traditional blessing of the altars/offrendas closing ceremony.

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In-person 18th Annual Celebraciones de la Gente returns to the Museum of Northern Arizona

CLICK HERE to see photos from previous Celebraciones de la Gente

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces celebrates the in-person return of Día de los Muertos / Day of the Dead when the 18th Annual Celebraciones de la Gente is presented at the Museum of Northern Arizona on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 23 and 24.

Celebrate the history and culture of Mexican, Mexican American and Latin@ communities in Northern Arizona at this annual fall event, which will include music, dance, food and heartfelt remembrances.

In partnership with Flagstaff’s Nuestras Raíces, the museum’s Jaime Golightly Courtyard will be transformed into a beautiful lit setting, with intricately cut papel picado (pierced paper) and lovely arrange ofrendas (altars) to welcome past loved ones to the party.

On Saturday evening the courtyard will stay open into the night, as the full impact of the candlelit ofrendas can be enjoyed, along with Mexican treats and soulful strolling Mariachis. Don’t miss this fall festival. Invite your friends and family, from this world and the next! 

Some of the scheduled events each day include sugar skull-making workshops, “Ofrenda 101” creating an altar workshops, performances by Ballet Folkorico de Colores — Flagstaff and Mariachi performers from Tucson.

The Courtyard After Dark event on Oct. 23 will include a candlelit ceremony honoring the memory of those who have lost their lives during the pandemic presented by members of Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces, with opening remarks by Museum of Northern Arizona Executive Director Mary Kershaw. 

Celebraciones will be held from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 23, and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 24, concluding with the traditional blessing of the altars/offrendas closing ceremony.

The event will be held at:

Museum of Northern Arizona

3101 N Fort Valley Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

General Admission:         $20

Native American:             $10

Child under 9:                    Free

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Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces thanks our sponsors who made the return of 2021 Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada possible

CLICK HERE to see photos from the event

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Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces celebrates return of Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada on Aug. 21, 2021

All veterans are encouraged to attend so they can participate in the traditional group photo and receive their veterans recognition certificates.

FLAGSTAFF — To celebrate and recognize Flagstaff’s Hispanic roots, Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces invites the public to attend its sixth annual “Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada — Mariachi and Folklorico Festival” from noon to 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 21 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 is the premier sponsor.

The festival’s goal is to celebrate the legacy of Flagstaff’s Hispanic culture through entertainment, music, dance, art, food and exhibits. All veterans 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 Herencia de Cuco Del Cid from Tucson, Ballet Folklorico de Colores – Flagstaff and dance music to conclude the celebration from Nueva Vibra from Tucson

A raffle. 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.

So for locals and visitors, escape triple-digit temperatures in the rest of the state, bring your lawn chairs and canopies and enjoy the cooler mountain breezes of Northern Arizona.

A Mariachi Mass will be held at 8 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 22 

at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.

The public is invited to both events. Visit www.flagstaffnuestrasraices.org or send an email to 2021president@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org or info@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org for more information.

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Celebraciones de la Gente

postponed until 2021

FLAGSTAFF — The 17th Annual Celebraciones de la Gente at the Museum of Northern Arizona has been postponed until 2021. Originally scheduled for Oct. 24-25, 2020, the Day of the Dead festival was rescheduled for the health and safety of all of our artists, visitors and staff.

Rooted in community, this weekend-long event has been presented at the museum in partnership with Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces. It features fine art and unique crafts, music and dancing, colorful and elaborate ofrendas (altars), insightful heritage programs and Day of the Dead inspired crafts for the kids.

Members of Nuestras Raices are currently working on virtual Celebraciones de la Gente programming for this year. Details to come shortly.

Other museum heritage festivals that will be rescheduled until next year include the annual the Navajo Festival, the Hopi Festival and the Zuni Festival. A Fall Heritage originally scheduled for this year has also been postponed until next year. Click here for the latest information on the museum’s heritage programs.

See below for links to photos/stories from previous Celebraciones activities:

• Community comes together to remember departed loved ones at 2019 Celebraciones de la Gente
• Final touches made for opening of the 16th annual Celebraciones de la Gente at the Museum of Northern Arizona
• Oct. 26-27 — 16th annual Celebraciones de la Gente to be held Oct. 26-27 at the Museum of Northern Arizona
• Community honors memories of families, friends with inspiring closing ceremony at 2018 Celebraciones de la Gente
• 15th Annual Celebraciones de la Gente opens with member preview on Oct. 19 at the Museum of Northern Arizona
• Lighting of the ofrendas greet museum members during 2017 Celebraciones de la Gente reception
• Visitors enjoy cultural performances, lectures on first day of 2017 Celebraciones de la Gente
• Community honors memories of families, friends with inspiring closing ceremony at 2017 Celebraciones de la Gente
• Celebraciones de la Gente returns to the Museum of Northern Arizona on Oct. 21-22
• The lighting of the ofrendas greet museum members during 2016 Celebraciones de la Gente reception
• Cultural performances, lectures and activities greet visitors on first day of 2016 Celebraciones de la Gente
• Region celebrates second day of 2016 Celebraciones de la Gente
• Northern Arizona community honors memories of families with closing ceremony at 2016 Celebraciones de la Gente
• Celebraciones de la Gente returns for lively Day of the Dead celebration on Oct. 22, 23
• Celebraciones de la Gente 2015 comes to a festive conclusion
• Celebraciones de la Gente continues at Museum of Northern Arizona
• 12th annual Celebraciones de la Gente opens to the public on Oct. 24 for two-day celebration of Día de los Muertos
• Sunset Magazine lists Celebraciones as one its its ‘“The West’s best Day of the Dead celebrations’
• 12th annual Celebraciones de la Gente to be held Oct. 24-25 at the Museum of Northern Arizona
• Region welcomes 11th annual Celebraciones de la Gente at the Museum of Northern Arizona
• 11th Annual Celebraciones de la Gente to be presented at the Museum of Northern Arizona on Oct 25-26. Members reception to be held Oct. 24
• Northern Arizona community honors heritage with altars, closing ceremony at Celebraciones de la Gente
• Capturing the spirit of 2013 Celebraciones de la Gente
• Musical, educational programs highlight opening day for public at Celebraciones de la Gente
• Community enjoys opening night at 10th annual Celebraciones de la Gente
• Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces gets ready for 10th annual Celebraciones de la Gente starting Oct. 25

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Flagstaff Nuestras  Raíces wins big at CCC’s Virtual 2020 4th of July Parade

JULY 9, 2020 FLAGSTAFFNUESTRASRAICES LEAVE A COMMENT

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Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces presents annual Sugar Skull Workshop at Banderas Craft Tacos in downtown Flagstaff on Oct. 4

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces will present its annual Sugar Skull-making workshop from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4 at Banderas Craft Tacos, 11 E. Aspen Ave., downtown Flagstaff.

Come learn the secrets of turning water and sugar into skulls for upcoming Día de Los Muertos / Day of the Dead celebrations.

Class led by Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces, presenters of the annual Celebraciones de la Gente at the Museum of Northern Arizona (Oct. 26-27).

$10 for a completed sugar skull and decorating supplies. Bring your own beverage. Snacks provided.

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

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Click on photo above to see slideshow from the 2019 Summertime Tardeada at www.AmigosNAZ.com

FLAGSTAFF — Temperatures in the mid-80s could not deter community members and supporters of Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces as the region celebrated the return the Summertime Tardeada Festival at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Flagstaff.

More than 200 people attended the celebration, which included music by community favorite Mariachi Sol Azteca, along with newcomer to the festival, Mariachi Tradicíon de México, both from Tucson.

Mariachi Sol Azteca has now performed in all five of the Summertime Tardeadas in Flagstaff, and is a fan favorite at the annual Celebraciones de la Gente at the Museum of Northern Arizona.

The Summertime Tardeada took last year off due to the unexpected death of 2018 Nuestras Raíces President Cristina Anaya and long-time Nuestras Raíces supporter and World War II veteran Tomas Vega.

In memory of Cristina Anaya, the mariachi group performed one of her favorite songs, a performance that deeply touched her family.

The celebration also included the annual recognition and group photo of veterans, who were all awarded with certificates in honor of their service. Nearly a dozen family and vendor booths surrounded the newly upgraded parking lot in an event that also featured traditional Mexican food, a raffle and a spirited performance by Ballet Folkorico de Colores — Flagstaff.

Veterans were also invited to have their individual portrait taken at the event so they can be included in future recognition banners created by Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces. Veterans and family members are also encouraged to send photos of local service members via email at president@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org

THANK YOU SPONSORS

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Mariachi Sol Azteca, Mariachi Tradición de Mexico to perform at Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada on June 29, 2019

Veterans are encouraged to arrive by 11:30 a.m. so they can participate in the traditional group photo and receive their veterans recognition certificates.

FLAGSTAFF, AZ (June 21, 2019) — To celebrate and recognize Flagstaff’s Hispanic roots, Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces invites the public to attend its fifth annual “Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada — Mariachi and Folklorico Festival” from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, June 29 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 is the premier sponsor.

The festival’s goal is to celebrate the legacy of Flagstaff’s Hispanic culture through entertainment, music, dance, art, food and exhibits. Veterans are encouraged to arrive by 11:30 a.m. so they can participate in the traditional group photo and receive their veterans recognition certificates.  

The entertainment stage will feature Mariachi Sol Azteca and Mariachi Traditión de Mexico from Tucson, Ballet Folklorico de Colores – Flagstaff and dance music by DJ Armando.

The event will also include an “Oldies” car show (from the early ’60s back to the 1940s) and a raffle. 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.

So for locals and visitors, escape triple-digit temperatures in the rest of the state, bring your lawn chairs and canopies and enjoy the cooler mountain breezes of Northern Arizona.

A Mariachi Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Sunday, June 30 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.

The public is invited to both events. Visit www.flagstaffnuestrasraices.org or send an email to  president@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org  or info@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org  for more information.

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FLAGSTAFF — To celebrate and recognize Flagstaff’s Hispanic roots, Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces invites the public to attend to the return of the “Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada — Mariachi and Folklorico Festival” from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, June 29, 2019 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 224 S. Kendrick St., Flagstaff.

The event is free and has drawn upwards of 400 visitors in past years.

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.

What is a Tardeada? It’s a vibrant afternoon festival and social dance celebrating Flagstaff’s Hispanic culture and community history.

The festival’s goal is to celebrate the legacy of Flagstaff’s Hispanic culture through entertainment, music, dance, art, food and exhibits.

The Tardeada will feature mariachi and folklorico performances, a tribute to Hispanic veterans in the region, a raffle and Mexican and regular barbecue food sold as a fundraiser.

So escape the triple-digit temperature in most of Arizona, bring your chairs and canopies and enjoy the cooler mountain breezes of Northern Arizona.

More details to come…

To participate as a vendor or sponsor, please send an email to Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces President Delia Munoz at president@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org

Click on photo below to view photos of 2017 Tardeada celebration

Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces celebrates 2017 Summertime Tardeada Mariachi & Folklorico Festival

Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces celebrates ‘2016 Summertime Tardeada’

Record crowd attends 2nd annual ‘Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada and Oldies Car Show’

Northern Arizona veteranos honored at Tardeada 2015

Car show adds shine to Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada 2015

Mariachi Sol Azteca & Compania de Danza Folklorica Arizona make successful return to Tardeada 2015

Community dances the day, night away to sounds of Grupo Fierro of Tucson at Tardeada 2015

Inaugural ‘Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada and Oldies Car Show’ on June 28 draws larger than expected crowds

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Thank you for attending the 15th annual Celebraciones de la Gente ©

Members and Supporting Members of Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces.

Photos by Frank X. Moraga / AmigosNAZ ©2018

Closing Ceremony Group Shot

More Photos to come later this week

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Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces presents annual Sugar Skull Workshop at Our Lady of Guadalupe Cultural Center ‘The Basement’ on Oct. 5

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces will present its annual Sugar Skull-making workshop from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 5 at the Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church Cultural Arts Center “The Basement,” 224 S. Kendrick St., Flagstaff.

The event is part of the Flagstaff First Friday Art Walk.

Come learn the secrets of turning water and sugar into skulls for upcoming Día de Los Muertos / Day of the Dead celebrations.

Class led by Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces, presenters of the annual Celebraciones de la Gente at the Museum of Northern Arizona (Oct. 19-21).

$10 for a completed sugar skull and decorating supplies. Bring your own beverage. Snacks provided.

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

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Save the Date: 15th Annual Celebraciones de la Gente to be held Oct. 20-21, 2018

FLAGSTAFF — The Museum of Northern Arizona and Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces are proud to announce the 15th Annual Celebraciones de la Gente, Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 20-21 at the Museum of Northern Arizona.

Planning is underway for the annual Día de los Muertos celebration, which is tentatively scheduled to feature fine arts and unique crafts, Mariachi music, Folklorico and Aztec dancing, colorful and elaborate ofrendas (altars or offerings), insightful heritage programs and Day of the Dead inspired crafts for children.

The Museum member preview is tentatively scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 19, with the third annual “Courtyard After Dark” celebration for the general public scheduled from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 20.

Artists are encourage to download the 2018 applications here so they can display and sell their works of art at the annual celebration.

Those wishing to present an ofrenda are encouraged to send an email to Delia Munoz at president@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org

Visit www.flagstaffnuestrasraices.org or the museum’s website here for the latest updates. Send an email to info@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org for more information.

Please join us for this lively celebration of Day of the Dead.

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Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces takes part in 2018 Armed Forces Day Parade

Click on photo above to see slideshow on AmigosNAZ.com

FLAGSTAFF — The community celebrated the annual Armed Forces Day Parade held Saturday, May 19, 2018 in downtown Flagstaff.

The parade theme was “Freedom is Not Free.”

The event honored local veterans from World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.

Vintage military vehicles, a member of the Navajo Code Talkers, ROTC and active duty service members participated in the event.

During the parade, Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces displayed a set of banners with photos honoring the service of living Hispanic veterans from the region, as well banners remembering those Hispanics who served in the military. The banners will be displayed at future Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces events.

The group also honored the memory of Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces President Christina Anaya as a long-time supporter of the annual event.

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Remembering Christina Anaya

FLAGSTAFF — Members of Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces and the wider community of Flagstaff were sadden this week to hear of the passing of Christina Anaya, a life-long community advocate in the region.

Christina was serving as president of Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces and presided over the planning of the 2017 Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada, the group’s participation of the 2017 Celebraciones de la Gente at the Museum of Northern Arizona and the 2017 Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebration.

She was a volunteer for a number of community groups and organizations, including the Flagstaff Police Department, a member of Sociedades Guadalupanas at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Flagstaff.

“It is with great sadness today (May 15) the Flagstasff Police Department learned they lost a friend and family member. Ms. Christina Anaya,” the department stated on its Facebook site. “Christina volunteered her time at the PD for more than 12 years. She has worked in Records, National Night Out and other community events and assigned to the Detective section going through pawn slips! Her smile and fun attitude will surely be missed. Thank you for your service and commitment to our community. We are all lucky to know you.”

Christina received the 2015 Big Award, one of three volunteers from Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Flagstaff recognized for their work with the organization, according to an article in the Arizona Daily Sun.

She will be missed by all who have known her.

Rosary is scheduled for 7 p.m. Sunday, May 20 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 224 S. Kendrick St., Flagstaff. Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, May 21 at San Francisco de Asis Catholic Church, 1600 E. Route 66, Flagstaff. The burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, and please join us for a reception at San Francisco parish center, 12:30 PM.

See the Arizona Daily Sun story of May 18 for more information.

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Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces remembers veteran, Hispanic pioneer Tomas Vega

FLAGSTAFF — Members of Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces would like to remember the contributions of Tomas H. Vega, a Flagstaff native, who passed away on March 14 at the age of 96. Mr. Vega was a regular at many of the group’s functions, including the annual Summertime Tardeada at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church and the annual Celebraciones de la Gente at the Museum of Northern Arizona.

He was a part of America’s “Greatest Generation,” landing on Omaha Beach during the Normandy invasion in June 1944.

He will be honored, along with other Hispanic veterans, during the 2018 Armed Forces Day Parade in downtown Flagstaff.

For more on his remarkable life, please visit the Arizona Daily Sun story HERE.

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Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces to participate in 12th Annual Flagstaff Armed Forces Day Parade on May 19, 2018

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces will participate in the 12th Annual Flagstaff Armed Forces Day Parade at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 19, 2018 in downtown Flagstaff.

The parade theme is “Freedom is Not Free.”

To register for the parade, RSVP to flagstaffafd2018@gmail.com

Call 928-286-7446 for more information.

Click on photo below for slideshow of 2017 Flagstaff Armed Forces Day Parade

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American Legion Auxiliary, Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces to present Cinco de Mayo Celebration — Dinner, Dance

FLAGSTAFF — The American Legion Auxiliary and Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces will present a “Cinco de Mayo Celebration — Dinner, Dance,” on Saturday, May 5 at American Legion Post No. 3, 204 W. Birch St., Flagstaff.

The Dinner will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. — $10 per person for the three-item combo plate

The Dance will be held from 7 to 11 p.m. — $10 per person for the dance

There will also be raffles and split the pot.

Tickets available from American Legion Auxiliary and Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces.

Send an email to info@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org for more information.

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Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebration 2017 to be held Dec. 11-12

FLAGSTAFF — The annual Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebration begins at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 11 with a procession from Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel, 224 S. Kendrick St., to San Francisco de Asis Catholic Church, 1600 E. Route 66.

After a brief stop for a hot food and drink potluck at the Flagstaff Fire Department Station No. 2, the procession will proceed up the hill along Ponderosa Parkway to San Francisco de Asis Catholic Church for a Mass at 7 p.m.

Festivities will begin the next day at 6 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 12 with a Rosary, Mananitas at 6:30, Mass at 7, followed by Café y pan at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.

The church will be encircled by nearly 200 luminarias, placed there by members of Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces.

Activities will conclude with Café y pan at 8 a.m, Dec. 12 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church Cultural Center “The Basement.”

“Monday evening is the vigil of the celebration of the patron saint of the Americas, Our Lady of Guadalupe,” wrote Father Patrick Mower in the parish’s Dec. 10 bulletin. “There is a beautiful celebration and procession from OLG Chapel up to our church on the mesa. We stop at the fire station (at the bottom of the hill” for a short rest with refreshments before we head up the hill. There are dancers, songs and prayers as we honor our Lady. Although many may thing this to be a “Hispanic” event, our Lady is the patron of all the Americas, not just Mexico and Central America. How nice would that be if the crowd doubled in size and race as we all walk in procession to celebrate Mass in honor of Mary together as a Church, the people of God, not divided but united in Christ. There is a bus that will leave here at 5:15 p.m. to take people down to OLG so that your cars will be here waiting for you after the Mass. We start the procession at 5:30 p.m. The whole trip is only 2.2 miles. Hope to see you there. God’s blessing on you all, you are loved.”

See slideshow from 2016 Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebration

Photos by Frank X. Moraga / AmigosNAZ ©2016

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Thank you for attending the 14th annual Celebraciones de la Gente

Members and Supporting Members of Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces.

Photos by Frank X. Moraga / AmigosNAZ ©2017

Closing Ceremony Group Shot

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See photo slideshow of:

Lighting of the ofrendas greet museum members during 2017 Celebraciones de la Gente reception

Visitors enjoy cultural performances, lectures on first day of 2017 Celebraciones de la Gente

Community honors memories of families, friends with inspiring closing ceremony at 2017 Celebraciones de la Gente

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Thank you Cholllas Peligrosas, above, and Mariachi Sol Azteca, below for performing at the 14th annual Celebraciones de la Gente.

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See coverage by local media:

Arizona Daily Sun: Dia de los Muertos, a celebration of life, this weekend at MNA (Oct. 21-22)

Arizona Daily Sun: Around the Town: Annual Day of the Dead festivities include crafts, food, and more

Arizona Daily Sun: Celebraciones de la Gente (2016 Slideshow)

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Supported by Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces

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Thank you for attending the 4th annual Summertime Tardeada Mariachi & Folklorico Festival

Thank you sponsors for your support

Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces celebrates 2017 Summertime Tardeada Mariachi & Folklorico Festival

Click here or on the photo to view slideshow of the Tardeada

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Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church celebrates Mariachi Mass

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Fourth Annual Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada Festival to be held June 24 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Mariachi Mass set for June 25

FLAGSTAFF — To celebrate and recognize Flagstaff’s Hispanic roots, Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces invites the public to attend its fourth annual “Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada — Mariachi and Folklorico Festival” from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, June 24 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 224 S. Kendrick St., Flagstaff. The event is free and has drawn upwards of 400 visitors in past years.

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.

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 is the premier sponsor.

The festival’s goal is to celebrate the legacy of Flagstaff’s Hispanic culture through entertainment, music, dance, art, food and exhibits. The entertainment stage will feature Ballet Folklorico de Colores – Flagstaff; Desierto de Colores Ballet Folklorico — Holbrook; Mariachi Herencia Musical and Mariachi Inspiración from Tucson, and Northern Latin Express.

The event will also include a tribute to Hispanic pioneers and Hispanic veterans in the region, a recognition of the 90^th anniversary of the church, an “Oldies” car show (from the early ’60s back to the 1940s) and a raffle. Mexican and regular barbeque food will be sold as a fundraiser for the Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces’ Cultural Heritage Fund. A recuerdos lecture focusing on the history of the Hispanic community in the region will also be held at the Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church Cultural Center “The Basement.”

So escape the triple-digit temperature in most of Arizona, bring your chairs and canopies and enjoy the cooler mountain breezes of Northern Arizona.

A Mariachi Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Sunday, June 25 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.

The public is invited to both events. Visit www.flagstaffnuestrasraices.org or send an email to info@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org for more information.

Click here to see photos from 2016 Summertime Tardeada

Click here to see photos from 2016 Mariachi Mass

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Thank you for attending the 13th annual Celebraciones de la Gente

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Please click on photos or headlines below for slideshows of images from the 13th annual Celebraciones de la Gente

The lighting of the ofrendas greet museum members during 2016 Celebraciones de la Gente reception

Cultural performances, lectures and activities greet visitors on first day of 2016 Celebraciones de la Gente

Region celebrates second day of 2016 Celebraciones de la Gente

Northern Arizona community honors memories of families with closing ceremony at 2016 Celebraciones de la Gente

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Arizona Daily Sun: Celebraciones de la Gente dives into Spanish Colonial art

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Celebraciones de la Gente returns for lively Day of the Dead celebration on Oct. 22, 23

Event includes inaugural evening showing of altars on Oct.22

FLAGSTAFF — It’s Lucky 13 for Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces, which presents its 13th annual Celebraciones de la Gente from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 22 and 23 at the Museum of Northern Arizona (MNA), 3101 N. Fort Valley Road, Flagstaff.

“A joyous occasion, the festival is a way for the community to honor deceased loved ones and transform grief into music, dance and artistic expression,” said Cristen Crujido, director of marketing and public affairs at the museum. “Celebraciones celebrates all aspects of Latino culture, not only locally but throughout the southwest and Mexico.”

Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos), an ancient pre-Columbian observance, is held throughout Mexico, Latin America and the Southwest on Nov. 1 and 2 (All Saint’s Day and All Soul’s Day).

While rituals and timing vary geographically, central to every celebration is a gathering of friends and family who visit cemeteries to remember their loved ones. Today’s celebrations fuse centuries of indigenous practices with contemporary traditions and spiritual beliefs. Ofrendas (altars), marigold flowers, sugar skulls and skeleton caricatures, pan de muerto (bread of the dead) and photos of those who have passed take center stage.

Visitors will enjoy two days of fine art and unique crafts from more than a dozen local, Arizona and Southwest artists. From paintings and jewelry, to bultos, retablos and tinwork, a variety of artwork is available for purchase.

In addition, attendees will enjoy performances by Mariachi Sol Azteca de Tucson and Ballet Folklorico de Colores de Flagstaff in Branigar Hall (get there early, limited seating), entertainment by local favorites Los Compadres in the Jaime Major Golightly Historic Courtyard, traditional pre-Columbian dancing by Los Matachines de Flagstaff and Day of the Dead-inspired crafts for children.

The member preview (with a silent auction) will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 21. The event includes the first opportunity to purchase artwork from participating artists. To become a member of the Museum of Northern Arizona, call 928.774.5211, ext. 219.

The museum’s courtyard will be transformed — decorated with brightly colored papel picado (cut-paper banners), candles and more than a dozen flower-and-memento-filled ofrendas created by local families and artists.

For the first time community members can also enjoy an evening viewing of the ofrendas / altars from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22. Hot chocolate and pan dulce will be available for purchase. Admission is $5 and free for children under 10.

“In addition to the visual and performing arts, the event also includes humanities-based lectures and presentations by noted authors, scholars and artists that highlight and explore the Mexican, Mexican-American and Chicano(a) experience of the region and beyond” Crujido said.

Schedule programs include:

• “Día de los Muertos: A Celebration of Life & Death” with Elena Díaz Bjorkquist
• “Macaws, Chocolate & Turquoise: The Southwest, Meso-American Connection” with Dr. Ben Nelson, Dr. Kelley Hayes-Gilpin and Christopher Schwartz
• “Legends of Love” with Stella Pope Duarte
• “Los Recuerdos de Barrio” with Delia Ceballos Muñoz
• “Ofrendas 101” with Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces
• “Growing Up Chicana in Morenci, Arizona” with Elena Díaz Bjorkquist
• “La Virgin & Talking Eagle” with Stella Pope Duarte

Keep checking back for times and dates of the lecture programs.

Other activities include sugar skull decorating and a papel picado (cut paper) workshops, a “Piñata for Pepita” show and Day of the Dead arts & crafts for children.

Celebraciones de la Gente is presented in partnership with Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces. Celebraciones is made possible through the Arizona Commission on the Arts, which receives support from the State of Arizona and the National Endowment for the Arts, Arizona Humanities, City of Flagstaff BBB Revenues/Flagstaff Arts Council and the Coconino County Board of Supervisors.

Event admission is $12 adult and $8 student (with ID), American Indian (with tribal affiliation) and youth (10-17). Children under 10 and MNA members are free.

The Museum of Northern Arizona is located at 3101 N. Fort Valley Road, three miles from downtown Flagstaff on scenic Highway 180 leading to the Grand Canyon.

Visit musnaz.org or call 928-774-5213 for membership and event information.

Please click here for more information

Download the Celebraciones Artist Application Here

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Click here to see more photos at www.AmigosNAZ.com

Participants create sugar skulls ahead of Día de los Muertos / Day of the Dead celebrations

Workshop at basement of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Flagstaff open to all ages

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces presented a sugar skull-making workshop Oct. 7 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church & Cultural Center in Flagstaff.

Community members learned the secrets of turning water and sugar into skulls, which they then decorated to honor their departed loved ones during upcoming Día de los Muertos / Day of the Dead celebrations.

Some stories link the creation of the sugar skulls to the Spanish conquest of Mexico, the production of sugar cane and then the arrival of European missionaries, who taught sugar skull art to the indigenous population in the 17th century.

The class was led by Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces.

Sugar skulls will be available for sale and decoration during workshops at the annual Celebraciones de la Gente at the Museum of Northern Arizona (Oct. 22-23).

Visit https://flagstaffnuestrasraices.org or send an email to info@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org  to get more details on the event.

As reported in: 

• Arizona Daily Sun — Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces to present sugar skull-making workshop on Oct. 7
• Flagstaff365 — Sugar Skull-Making Workshop
• Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce — Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces to present sugar skull-making workshop on Oct. 7
• KNAU — Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces to present sugar skull-making workshop on Oct. 7

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Tardeada’s Mariachi Mass returns to Flagstaff

Click here or on the photo to view a slideshow of the Mariachi Mass at San Francisco de Asis Catholic Church

FLAGSTAFF — The spirits soared in keeping with the inspiring voices and music when Mariachi Sol Azteca from Tucson performed a Mariachi Mass on Sunday, June 26 at San Francisco de Asis Catholic Church in Flagstaff.

Presented by Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces, the group performed as the traditional follow-up event to the annual “Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada — Mariachi and Folklorico Festival.” Hundreds of the faithful filled the pews to listen to the group perform a variety of religious songs during the Spanish-language Mass.

The performance was part of Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces’ efforts to bring back traditional Hispanic cultural events to the region.

Those efforts include a Mariachi Mass performed during the summer at either San Francisco de Asis Catholic Church or Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church; a Mariachi Mass performed in honor the the Celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe performed at the churches, which also include the lighting of luminarias at both locations.

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Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces celebrates ‘2016 Summertime Tardeada’

Click here or on the photo to view all slideshow of the Tardeada events

FLAGSTAFF — Even a little rain could not deter the celebrants and entertainers at the third annual “Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada — Mariachi and Folklorico Festival” held Saturday, June 25 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.

Presented by Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces, the event drew more than 400 visitors who listened to a record three mariachi groups from Tucson — Mariachi Herencia Musical, Mariachi Inspiración and Mariachi Sol Azteca — enjoyed dance performances from Ballet Folklorico de Colores – Flagstaff and Desierto de Colores Ballet Folklorico — Holbrook; marveled at the dozen our so classic cars and chromed-out motorcycles and honored the sacrifices of local Hispanic veterans.

The crowd was also treated to a recuerdos photo exhibit focusing on the history of the Hispanic community in the region held at the Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church Cultural Center “The Basement”, Mexican and regular barbecue food, a raffle and games for children.

Food and t-shirt sales for the event go to the Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces’ Cultural Heritage Fund, which supports the renovation of the church’s basement, the placement of luminarias around the church each December and other local projects.

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Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces presents

2016 Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada

Mariachi & Folklorico Festival on June 25

Click here for more information

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Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces announces dates of upcoming events

Following successful efforts during the 2016 Armed Forces Day Parade and Veterans Fest, the Third Annual “Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada & Car Show” and the annual Mariachi Mass at San Francisco de Asis Catholic Church, Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces will shift its focus to plan for a number of upcoming events this fall and winter.

> Oct. 22-23 — Save the Date: The Museum of Northern Arizona and Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces to present the 13th annual “Celebracions de la Gente,” with the member’s preview to be held from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 21. Celebraciones will open to the public on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 22 and 23. Fine art and unique crafts, Mariachi music, Folklorico dancing, colorful and elaborate ofrendas (altars), insightful heritage programs, and Day of the Dead inspired crafts for the kids. Click here for more information.

> Late October/early November — Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces tentatively scheduled to participate in the annual “Día de los Muertos Celebration” at Snowdrift Art Space, Historic Route 66, downtown Winslow. Details on date, time to come. Click here for information on the 2014 and 2015 Día de los Muertos Celebrations.

> Dec. 11 — The annual “Celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe Procession” will tentatively begin at 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 224 S. Kendrick St., Flagstaff. The procession will conclude with a reception at the Fire Station No. 2 (1701 Ponderosa Parkway), before proceeding up the Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces 300-plus luminaria lit road to San Franscisco de Asis Catholic Church, 1600 E Rte 66, Flagstaff. Details to come.

> Dec. 12 — The annual “Celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe Mariachi Mass,” which includes the lighting by Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces of about 200 luminaries, will tentatively begin at 7 a.m. Monday, Dec. 12 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 224 S. Kendrick St., Flagstaff. Details to come.

Details subject to change. For more information, send an email to  info@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org

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Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces to participate again in the ‘Celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe’

Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces will join with other groups in the annual “Celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe,” with activities scheduled for Friday and Saturday, Dec. 11 and 12. The event traditionally includes a procession starting at 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 224 S. Kendrick St., Flagstaff.

The procession will then proceed to San Francisco de Asis Catholic Church, 1600 E, Route 66, where participants and the public will be greeted by more than 400 luminarias placed up the hill to the church by members of Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces. Upon arriving at the church, entertainment will include music by Mariachi Mexico Antiguo of Las Vegas, a performance by the Matachines Dancers and a play on “The Story of Our Lady of Guadalupe.”

A Novena and Rosary will then be held at 7 a.m., followed by a Mass with Father Patrick Mowrer and Mananitas by Mariachi Mexico Antiguo at 8:15 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 12 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.

Once again, Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church will be lit by more than 250 luminaries placed by members of Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces.

Members of Sociedades Guadalupanas will then present breakfast downstairs at the Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church Cultural Center as a fundraiser for maintenance of the church.

All the events are open to the public.

Send an email to info@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org  for more information.

Click here to see slideshow from 2014 celebration

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Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces participates in Winslow’s annual Día de los Muertos

Click on photo to see more images from Winslow’s third annual Día de los Muertos

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Thank you for attending the 12th annual Celebraciones de la Gente

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Celebraciones de la Gente 2015 comes to a festive conclusion

FLAGSTAFF — The 12th annual Celebraciones de la Gente came to a festive and fitting conclusion on Sunday Oct. 25 with the traditional blessing of the ofrendas / altars by In Tlanextli Tlacopan Aztec Fire Dancers, music by Mariachi Mexico Antiguo and the group photo in front of the Museum of Northern Arizona.

The event was presented by the museum in partnership with Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces

A full day of activities preceded the closing ceremony, which included workshops on sugar skull decorating, creating an ofrenda, the history behind “La Llorona (The Weeping Woman)” with Stella Pope Duarte, and performances by Ballet Folklorico de Colores de Flagstaff along with Mariachi Mexico Antiguo and In Tlanextli Tlacopan Aztec Fire Dancers.

A variety of vendors selling traditional arts, crafts and jewelry could be found throughout the museum, along with nearly two dozen ofrendas in the museum’s historic Jaime Major Golightly Historic Courtyard.

Click here to see a slideshow of the closing day of the 12th annual Celebraciones de la Gente.

Commemorative photo booklets are still available for sale online — click here — as a benefit to Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces to help the organization bring more cultural programs to the region.

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Celebraciones de la Gente continues at Museum of Northern Arizona

FLAGSTAFF — Celebraciones de la Gente got off to a rousing start on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2015 at the Museum of Northern Arizona.

Click here to see a slideshow of the opening day for the public of the  12th annual Celebraciones de la Gente.

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12th annual Celebraciones de la Gente opens to the public on Oct. 24 for two-day celebration of Día de los Muertos

FLAGSTAFF — Final preparations were completed by Friday afternoon with the hanging of strings of papel picado and the adornment of nearly two dozen altars at the Museum of Northern Arizona as Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces prepared for the 12th annual Celebraciones de la Gente to be held Oct. 24-25. In partnership with the Museum of Northern Arizona, the celebration opened with a member’s preview on Friday evening with the lighting of candles throughout the historic Jaime Major Golightly Historic Courtyard. The public is invited to attend Celebraciones at 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 24 and Sunday, Oct. 25.

Click here to see a slideshow of the preparations and member’s preview at the 12th annual Celebraciones de la Gente.

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Sunset Magazine lists Celebraciones as one its its ‘“The West’s best Day of the Dead celebrations’

Sunset Magazine included Celebraciones de la Gente in Flagstaff as one of its “The West’s best Day of the Dead celebrations.”

“The festival features the usual handicrafts, altars, and music, but with a hint of the Old West, thanks to the participation of Nuestras Raíces (‘Our Roots’), a local heritage organization honoring the city’s Hispanic pioneer families from the early 1900s,” the magazine reported

Click here to see the full article.

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Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces prepares for Sugar Skull workshops

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces has begun preparations for its annual Sugar Skull workshops on Oct. 24-25 at the Museum of Northern Arizona and Nov. 1 at the Snowdrift Art Space in Winslow.

The group has already created an estimated 100 sugar skulls for the workshops, with an additional 25 expected to be made prior to upcoming Día de los Muertos events.

Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces held its first sugar skull workshop as part of its monthly First Friday art event on Oct. 2 at the Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church Cultural Arts Center. Guests were shown how the sugar, water and other ingredients are mixed prior to placing the mixture into plastic molds.

Click here or on photo for more information and a slideshow.

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Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces tentatively scheduled to hold next meeting in December

Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces will meet at 5:30 p.m. in Flagstaff, Arizona. * Time, location subject to change. Send an email to info@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org for more information.

Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces se reunirá a las 5:30 pm en Flagstaff, Arizona. * Tiempo, lugar puede cambiar. info@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org   para más información.

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Flagstaff celebrates Mariachi Mass at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church

Click here to view a slideshow of the Mariachi Mass at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church

Once again the sounds of violas and guitars could be heard when Mariachi Azteca de Sol from Tucson performed its annual Mariachi Mass on Sunday June 28 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Flagstaff.

Father Patrick Mower celebrated the Mass as more than 100 people attended the second annual gathering, which is held the day after the “Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada & Car Show” on the grounds of the church.

Mariachi Azteca de Sol performed outside, welcoming the faithful to the church, and then performed during the services and again outside to conclude the event.

New this year was a second performance to follow at San Francisco de Asis Catholic Church on Route 66.

Thank you to supporters who donated funds to bring the Mariachi Mass to Flagstaff.

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Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces presents annual Menudo / Posole breakfast

Click here to view a slideshow of the Posole / Menudo breakfast

The aroma of posole and menudo filled the air when Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces presented its second annual breakfast following the Mariachi Mass on Sunday, June 28 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Flagstaff.

Money raised during the breakfast will be used in the group’s Cultural Heritage Fund, which includes the renovation of the Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church Cultural Center, aka “The Basement.”

Within the past two years the center has undergone a significant make-over including new drywall, painting, the addition of a mural celebrating the installation of the Our Lady of Guadalupe wooden statue, which was once localed in the old Catholic school in Plaza Vieja, and the initial installation of historical photos featuring the history of the church.

Future plans include installation of historical vestments and chalices, new flooring and new lighting.

Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces has sought to work with groups within the Catholic Parish to breath new life to the historical site, which became a chapel following the construction of the San Francisco de Asis Catholic Church on Route 66, which resulted in the consolidation of three former church sites in the city.

Those efforts have resulted in annual Mariachi Masses at Our Lady of Guadalupe, the annual “Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada & Car Show,” the lighting of luminaries at both Our Lady of Guadalupe and the lane leading up to San Francisco de Asis Catholic Church and the annual Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe dinner at the center on Dec. 12.

Thanks to community members, volunteers and supports of Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces for making those efforts successful.

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Flagstaff community comes out to support, celebrate 2nd annual ‘Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada and Oldies Car Show’ on June 27 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church

Click here to view more photos from “Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada 2015″

Several hundred visitors flocked to the parking lot of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church and Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces to attend the second annual “Flagstaff Summertime Tardeada” fiesta on Saturday, June 27.

The Tardeada, a vibrant afternoon festival and social dance celebrating Flagstaff’s Hispanic culture and community history, drew even a larger crowd than the 500 visitors who attended the 2014 event.

The church is a significant 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.

The entertainment stage featured Ballet Folklorico de Colores – Flagstaff; dance music presented by Grupo Fierro of Tucson; Desierto de Colores Ballet Folklorico de Holbrook; Flagstaff Artists Unidos featuring Alena Chavez, Monico Nunez, Steve Carrillo and Tim Valdez; Compania de Danza Folklorica Arizona from Tucson and the showcase group, Mariachi Sol Azteca from Tucson.

Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces extends its heartfelt thanks to the record number of sponsors to who came out to support this year’s Tardeada.

Visit www.flagstaffnuestrasraices.org,  http://www.flagstaffnuestrasraices.com or send an email to info@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org  for more information.

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‘Paint & Wine in the Pines’ art students on June 5 get an early start to summer

Artist Vangie Rodriguez led students to a Summer Sunflower masterpiece inspired by Van Gogh’s Sunflowers during her most recent art class on June 5 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church & Cultural Arts Center, 224 N. Kendrick St., Flagstaff.

Click here for more information on her next art class.

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‘Paint & Wine in the Pines’ art students on May 1 get early start to Cinco de Mayo celebration

Artist Vangie Rodriguez led students during a Cinco de Mayo-inspired art class held at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church & Cultural Arts Center on Friday, May 1.

The next “Paint & Wine in the Pines” is tentatively scheduled for Friday, June 5.

Click here or here to get the latest information.

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First Friday beginning art class celebrates Valentine’s Day during Flagstaff First Friday Art Walk

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Community enjoys a Joyous Holiday Season

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Region welcomes 11th annual Celebraciones de la Gente 

Click on image above to see a slideshow

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2014 ‘Celebraciones de la Gente

— A Lively Celebration of Day of the Dead’ 

comes to a lively and successful conclusion

The Museum of Northern Arizona, in partnership with Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces, successfully presented the 11th annual “Celebraciones de la Gente” during the weekend of Oct. 24-26.

Thank you to all artists, vendors, museum staff and community members who supported this important cultural event in Northern Arizona.

Keep visiting www.FlagstaffNuestrasRaices.org or send an email to info@flagstaffnuestrasraices.org for more information.

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Click on image above to see a slideshow

Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces supports Snowdrift Art Space’s Día de los Muertos Celebration in Winslow

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The procession began with the lighting of more than 150 luminarias around Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel near downtown Flagstaff and ended with a view of more than 300 luminarias lining the winding road up to San Francisco de Asis Catholic Church.

In between, a group of more than 100 of the faithful braved the cold night air on Dec. 11, 2013 to celebrate the preview of the Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Members of Sociedades Guadalupanas were joined by a variety of community organizations and youth in the procession, while members of Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces took the lead in lighting the luminarias at both locations. The procession was followed the next day by Las Mananitas, a rosary, a mass and a community potluck held at Our Lady of Guadalupe in Flagstaff.

As part of its efforts to remember our roots, Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces presented the inaugural “Hispanics in Northern Arizona 2013 Photo Exhibit,” held Dec. 12, 2013 during the community potluck at the Our Lady of Guadalupe Cultural Center. The group will be conducting more historic photo scanning events during 2014.

Members of Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces, members of the Museum of Northern Arizona, performers and community members gather for a group photo during closing ceremonies of the the 10th anniversary Celebraciones de la Gente on Oct. 27, 2013 in Flagstaff, AZ. Photo by Star Hunter / AmigosNAZ ©2013