ORANGE COVE – Community groups, businesses and vendors are being called upon to “echale ganas,” or give their best, to help an upcoming cultural festival come to life.
On Sept. 13, JO Eaton Memorial Park will be home to the Hispanic Heritage Day parade and festival. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., attendees can enjoy a host of free activities such as live music, rides and more, all in celebration of the city’s Hispanic roots.
“I feel that Orange Cove has a predominantly Hispanic population, and this event honors the cultural heritage, traditions and contributions of the Hispanic community,” said Cynthia Cisneros, Orange Cove city clerk and an active coordinator of local events.
This year’s festival marks the first one since the renaming of the Dieciséis de Septiembre, or Mexican Independence Day, celebration. Cisneros explained that being born and raised in Orange Cove, she grew up with events honoring Mexican culture, but this year the city wants to incorporate other Hispanic cultures and share the love.
“We’re just really happy that we’re able to bring this to the community because it just brings residents together in a family-friendly environment, and it strengthens our community bonds and pride,” Cisneros said.
To help manifest the celebration’s full potential, the city is calling for as many parade participants and vendors as possible. Cisneros noted that last year’s Cinco de Mayo celebration saw 25 participants, and the city has aspirations of doubling this year’s roster.
Those wishing to participate can pick up applications at City Hall on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Potential participants seeking additional information can call City Hall at 559-626-4488.
The parade will kick off at 11 a.m. along Park Boulevard, and after its conclusion, the festival will be in full swing.
Currently, the festival will offer train and pony rides from Elissa’s Pony Express from 1-3 p.m. Guests will also be treated to a mariachi performance by Nuevo Rubi from 2-3 p.m., followed by a set of live Mexican music from Grupo Balazo from 3-5 p.m.
When stomachs begin to grumble, attendees can treat themselves while supporting local businesses by browsing the festival’s various food vendors.
As the number of participants and range of activities continue to grow, Hispanic Heritage Day is shaping up to be a day filled with fun, food and love for one of Orange Cove’s cultural pillars.
EDITOR’S NOTE: A previous version of this article was updated on Aug. 27, 2025 at 1:15 p.m. pst to clarify the hours of operation of Orange Cove City Hall.
