KC Fiesta Hispana back in Kansas City, Lisa Lopez-Galvan to be honored

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — KC Fiesta Hispana is back in Kansas City this weekend at a new location next to the Hyvee Arena in the West Bottoms.

The annual event is a celebration of the Latino communities that make up Kansas City.

Night one of the event saw live performances, dancing and shopping. For many, it was also a chance to try something new.

“We saw the opportunity and we took it,” said Jose Orozco, a first-generation American.

While he manned the till outside booth 32, his father worked behind the grill. The Orozco family has big dreams for their small business Tacos El Jhona.

“We’re trying to start a family business,” added Jose.

“This is a way to get our name out there.”

That’s a similar story for Nicholas Lopez. He works at the airport but wants to turn Nico’s Street Dogs into a full-time gig.

“Doing my own store, selling some merchandise, and doing all that good stuff,” he said.

Named after his 6-year-old son, Nico’s Street Dogs is relatively new having just started in July. For Nicholas, this is a big moment.

“Our first festival and it’s a good one because our Aunt Lisa is getting honored tomorrow.”

Aunt Lisa, who we know better as Lisa Lopez-Galvan, the beloved mother and DJ who was killed at the Chiefs Victory Rally in February outside Union Station.

“She was a big part of this community and a big part of this fiesta every year,” added Nicholas.

Lisa sat on the Board of Directors for Fiesta Hispana for years. In light of her death her husband, Mike Galvan, now sits in her place.

“It’s bittersweet,” said Galvan.

“I wouldn’t do a great job as she would. She always had her hands in everything.”

Lisa will be honored at the festival at 6:30 Saturday night. Mayor Quinton Lucas is expected to attend and make a proclamation in her name.

While her memory lives on in the Latino community and beyond, her husband reflects on whether she’d be proud of him for taking her place on the board.

“To a certain extent, I’m trying, I’m trying,” he explained.

KC Fiesta Hispana continues Saturday from Noon to 11 p.m. and Sunday from Noon to 9:30 p.m. It’s free to park and attend.

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