Enjoy music and food at fifth annual Festival of the Monarch Butterfly Aug. 11
Immerse yourself in the magic of the Festival of the Monarch Butterfly: A Latino Celebration on Friday, Aug. 11, from 4 to 11 p.m., at Camera Park, 101 E. Fullerton Ave. in Glendale Heights.
Join the Immigrant Solidarity DuPage event and let yourself be captivated by "The Magic of Migration."
This event is a celebration of cultural diversity and the unwavering spirit of immigrants who cross great distances to develop as individuals and contribute their best to our communities.
The fusion of music with Mariachi Monarca, Aztec Dancers, and the infectious rhythm of the Folkloric Ballet will take you on a journey through Mexico's cultural richness and ancient traditions.
Musicophiles will be moved by the energy of Mexican rock from longtime headliners Los Corb from Glendale Heights, Zeus from Chicago, and El Circo. There is no doubt that music is the universal language that connects people from all walks of life, and at this event, it will be the gateway to a true communion of cultures.
"This is a local showcase of the what the local Mexican community is doing- creating amazing culinary delights, incredible music and the nonprofit and small business community which is innovating and adding excitement to the west suburbs our home," said Cristobal Cavazos, general coodinator of Immigrant Solidarity DuPage. "The Monarch Fest is an opportunity to invest in the local arts, to break down invisible barriers and discover the best of our culture in which people come first, community and friends, this is the future of suburban life, filling the erstwhile alienation with love and participation."
A "mini" addition
Mariachi Monarca, the new, young mariachi band formed by Immigrant Solidarity DuPage, will make its festival debut on stage.
Under the musical leadership of seasoned teacher Paul Richard Rodriguez of Suburban Music in Wheaton, the youngsters have been shaped into musicians over the past 12 months.
The band includes young musicians ranging in age from 8 to 20 years old and five sibling pairs.
The band will be donning uniforms which were largely sponsored by donations from the community.
"Some of the young musicians joined the mariachi band having no prior experience with an instrument," Rodriguez said. "Now their musical ability has taken flight as part of this mariachi tradition."
"Mariachi Monarca was formed so that our children and young people can preserve their culture and channel their exuberance through their instruments," Gabriela Hernández said.
"The Monarch Butterfly Festival 2023 is a tribute to the beauty of migration and the bravery of those who dare to cross borders in search of a better future," Rafael Vieyra said. "It is an opportunity to recognize and appreciate the contributions of immigrants, who enrich our lives and societies with their hope, faith, and hard work."
Savor the flavors
But that's not all! The Monarch Butterfly Festival 2023 will not only delight your ears but also your taste buds with authentic Mexican cuisine. Indulge in the traditional flavors that reflect Mexico's gastronomic wealth and savor the incredible variety of dishes that will transport you straight to its vibrant markets and street food stalls.
Organizers Rafael Vieyra and Gabriela Hernández, who are also connoisseurs and avid appreciators of Mexican food, say, "You'd have to visit Pilsen or travel to Mexico to experience the variety of foods we will have all at one place at this festival: corundas ("crown" tamales wrapped in banana leaves originating from the state of Michoacán) and pombazo, the beloved festival food sandwich dripping with flavor and sopes from Javi's Burritos are some highlights."
Celebration of migration
In addition to music and food, this event will offer you the opportunity to admire beautiful handicrafts, showcasing the talent and creativity of Mexican artisans. Each piece tells a story and will allow you to carry a piece of Mexican culture with you.
For families, there will a variety of health resources: community health plans, physical exams, COVID information and more. Games and activities for all ages will create an atmosphere of fun and unity.
The celebration of migration not only highlights the courage of those who embark on this journey but also emphasizes the importance of staying united as a community, regardless of our cultural differences.
Join Immigrant Solidarity DuPage's Festival of the Monarch Butterfly: A Latino Celebration to celebrate "The Magic of Migration" and pay tribute to the resilience and unity that the journey of immigrants represents.