Woodburn warms up to Fiesta time!

It’s time to warm up to Woodburn’s 60th annual Fiesta Mexicana, and the first step to that end is the coronation for the fiesta court.

That coronation event takes place from 6 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 10, in the Downtown Plaza (adjacent to the library) where there will also be music, vendors and the Show n’ Shine Car Show from 4 to 7 p.m.

The city of Woodburn officially announced plans and scheduled activities for the 2024 Fiesta, which takes place Friday through Sunday, Aug. 16-18 in Legion Park, 1385 Park Ave.: noon to 11 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday.

Friday's festivities are free. Entry is free Saturday and Sunday until 5 p.m., when the cost of entry becomes $5 for fiesta-goers over 10 years old.

Woodburn envisions a vibrant celebration of the community's rich cultural heritage, flavors and traditions. Fiesta Mexicana is recognized as one of Oregon’s top cultural events and has been honored as an Oregon Heritage Tradition in 2017.

City of Woodburn spokesperson Maricella Guerrero said Fiesta Mexicana reflects Woodburn’s dedication to fostering community spirit and cultural appreciation.

Since 1964 Fiesta Mexicana has represented a heartfelt expression of gratitude from the community to its farmworkers at the end of the harvest season, and it has grown into a beloved annual tradition.

“What began as a modest celebration has evolved into a grand event that attracts thousands of attendees and hundreds of parade participants each year,” Guerrero noted.

City sources boast that Fiesta draws nearly 27,000 people from the region to experience 60-plus vendors, offering a rich tapestry of global flavors and artisan goods, live music, traditional and popular dance performances, lucha libre wrestling, carnival, soccer and pickleball tournaments, and family-friendly activities. The festival remains a cherished occasion where people come together to celebrate unity, culture, traditions, and family.

For information, visit woodburn-or.gov/community-services/page/woodburn-fiesta-mexicana or search Fiesta Mexicana on Facebook .