Hanover Park fiesta celebrates Mexican culture

Music, dancing, food and activities for children will mark the sixth annual Mexican Independence Day Celebration on Friday, Sept. 18, at the Hanover Park Community Center Gym.

"Mariachi Morelos" band will set the mood for the fiesta with an hour of music beginning at 5:30 p.m. That will be followed by an hour of traditional dances from different parts of Mexico by Ballet Folklorico Raizes Mexicanas.

At 7:30 p.m., a representative from the General Consulate of Mexico in Chicago will lead the attendees in the official "Grito de Dolores" (Rite of Independence), a Mexican tradition.

At 8 p.m., there will be a special performance by Los 5 Magnificos de La Quebradita, a modern dance troop that incorporates flips, turns and twists into an amazing routine. The evening will conclude with live music and dancing to the Latin tunes of "Grupo Galeon" until 9:30 p.m.

Tamales, tacos, elotes and other Mexican classics will be available for purchase. There will be face painting, free games and crafts, with prizes for the kids.

The Community Center Gym is at 1919 Walnut Ave. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for kids 10 and under (kids under 3 are free). Tickets are available in advance at the Community Center, which is located at the same address. Attendance is limited, so its best to get tickets in advance.

Contact Lily Garcia at (630) 837-2468 or e-mail l.garcia@hpparks.org.