First published in the Aug. 25 print issue of the Pasadena Outlook.
The Pasadena Latino Heritage Committee will hold a kick-off party for its 24th Latino Heritage Parade and Festival on Thursday, Sept. 1, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Cervecería Del Pueblo, 141 W. Bellevue Drive, Pasadena.
This year’s theme is “De Colores.” The parade and festival will be held on Saturday, Oct. 1, with activities throughout September and October. This year’s grand marshal will be Liliana Perez, cultural affairs director for the Los Angeles Chargers, and the community grand marshal will be Yoland Trevino, executive director of Pasadena/Altadena Coalition of Transformative Leaders (PACTL).
The kick-off party will feature food by Vivi’s Gourmet Cuisine, a Colombian Food Truck, and beer from Cervecería Del Pueblo.
This year’s theme, “De Colores,” looks to honor the diversity within the Latino community, according to event organizers.
The kick-off party is one of several fundraising events throughout the year leading up to the parade on Oct. 1, said Teresa Deukmedjian, this year’s chair of the parade and festival.
“I am honored and thrilled to launch this year’s Pasadena Latino Heritage Month activities by hosting this year’s kick-off celebration,” said Martin Quinones, owner of Cervecería Del Pueblo.
I recently opened my doors and have been amazed by the outpouring of support from the people of this city and I wanted to start giving back. This brewery is a labor of love that allows me to bring South American flavors to the city.”
Tickets are $50 and can be purchased at the event. Proceeds from the evening will help support the expense of operating the parade and provide a scholarship to a local student.
