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Monte Vista- Downtown Monte Vista was filled with music, laughter and celebration Saturday, May 2, as residents and visitors gathered along Adams Street for a lively Cinco de Mayo event that showcased the spirit of the community.
Despite a foggy start early in the morning, the celebration quickly transformed into a vibrant and energetic gathering as the sun broke through and crowds filled the streets. The event brought together vendors, performers, and families for a full day of festivities.
Organizers Jacqueline Mascarenas and Terry Carroll began preparing for the event as early as 7:30 a.m., working through challenging conditions to bring the celebration together.
“We started out with some fog, and it was a little tough setting up,” Mascarenas said. “But it turned out to be a beautiful day, and we were so grateful for everyone who showed up and supported us.”
This year’s event reflected thoughtful planning and a strong sense of teamwork. Mascarenas and Carroll both said they were proud of what they were able to accomplish together.
“We’re really proud of each other,” they said. “We coordinated and planned this event together, and it means a lot to see it all come together the way it did.”
The celebration featured 37 vendors offering a wide variety of food, artisan goods, crafts and services from local nonprofits. Vendors included Tacos La Toxica, the Suavecito Grill and Poquito Picoso, and many more, along with Colorado Farm Brewery who provided beverages on tap for attendees.
“Everyone we talked to said they did really well and sold a lot,” Carroll said. “It was great to see that kind of support for our vendors.”
A major highlight of this year’s celebration was the integration of the car show into the main event area. By relocating it to a more central part of downtown, organizers created a more interactive experience for participants and attendees alike.
Car show participants were assisted by Tommy Vigil and Jasmine Vigil, who helped register vehicles and organize the event, with Tommy also serving as a judge.
Participants were seen walking throughout the event, visiting vendors, and enjoying the celebration.
“Even though we may have had fewer cars than expected, everyone was happy,” Mascarenas said. “They all went home with an award and a prize, and they really enjoyed being part of everything.”
Live entertainment added to the festive atmosphere throughout the day. The mariachi group Corazon De Valle performed traditional music, while Adobe De Oro contributed both musical and poetry performances.
Music filled the streets as attendees swayed, danced, and enjoyed the vibrant energy of the event.
One of the most memorable moments came when members of the Kumbia Kings, who were in Monte Vista for the Cowboy Kumbia Tour, stopped by the celebration.
“We felt very honored that they came,” Carroll said.
Mascarenas said their presence and feedback meant a great deal.
“They told us we really held a great event, and hearing that from them was such a high honor,” she said.
The group also helped with a concert ticket giveaway that had been planned as part of the event. Paula Alvarez was the lucky winner.
“I can’t wait to go home and get ready for the concert,” Alvarez said, smiling after receiving the tickets.
Community members shared the excitement as well. Paul Martinez said he was glad he brought his family.
“I really enjoyed the vendors and the music,” Martinez said.
Organizers credited the success of the event to the many individuals who contributed their time and effort, including Brian Carroll, Trisha Cannon, Junior Rodriguez and Kevin Hernandez, who helped with setup and Abby Miles who helped with social media and marketing.
They also thanked Dervin Taylor and the City of Monte Vista for assisting with the stage, bringing the Kumbia Kings to Monte Vista, and encouraging the Kumbia Kings to attend, as well as Rocking Rob Trujillo for serving as emcee.
“We couldn’t have done it without all of the support,” they said.
Carroll said this year’s event stood out for its improved flow and stronger sense of connection.
“The whole flow was very positive,” she said. “It felt more cohesive this year, especially with the involvement of businesses on Second Street. It was more organized, and the atmosphere was just great.”
Although official attendance numbers were not available, organizers said the turnout felt larger than in previous years, with more people engaging throughout the event.
As the day unfolded and the streets filled with music and movement, the celebration became a reflection of the community’s energy and pride.
“We worked really hard on this,” Carroll said. “To see the community enjoying it, that’s what makes it all worth it.”
What began as a foggy morning turned into a bright and memorable celebration — one that brought people together and highlighted the vibrant spirit of Monte Vista.
