An A-Z visitors guide to Milwaukee Wisconsin. Sponsored by Key Magazine Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/351719
46 MEXICAN FIESTA brings the sounds, culture and tastes of Mexico to Milwaukee's lakefront Henry W. Maier Festival Park (Summerfest grounds) Aug. 22-24. The festival offers entertainment, exhibits, contests, shopping, food and other attractions from noon to midnight all weekend. Tequila tasting is available on all three days of the festival at the Fiesta Bar. The bar also will feature different kinds of wine. Sports and entertainment collide in the wrestling ring at Mexican Fiesta with Lucha Libre wrestling on Saturday and Sunday. Visit the Cultural Pavilion to see beautiful arches, remarkable water fountain and handcrafted artisan works from the states of Mexico. Artists represent- ing a number of Mexican states will display art- works ranging from woodcarvings to jewelry to corn husk dolls, with many available for purchase. Don't miss the mouth-watering Pan de Feria – tra- ditional festival bread baked fresh every day by master bakers. The Genealogy Exhibit is where visitors can learn how to trace their "Mexican roots." In addition, a rare 17th century handpainted map with text in both Zapotec and the Spanish language will be exhibited in the Genealogy area. This map, once left forgotten in a desk, now is unlocking the histo- ry of the Mexican kingdom and the town of Santa Catarina Ixtepeji - Oaxaca. The Cultural Pavilion also features folkloric dances, music and craft workshops. Special exhibits this year focus on Corn Husk art and the first Mexican settler in Milwaukee. A huge pinata exhibit will delight festgoers of all ages. Musical performances throughout the weekend include international recording superstars and other top acts featuring mariachi, salsa, banda, bachata merengue, cumbia and much more. The Rock en Español Stage brings fun contemporary sounds to Mexican Fiesta. A Mariachi extravaganza features three bands on stage every day of the festival. These same bands, two from Mexico and an all-girl band from San Antonio, will perform separately as well. The dance traditions of Mexico will be showcased by several dance companies, including three from Mexico. Crowds will gather for the fun of Mexican Fiesta's contests – Salsarengue contest, dance contest, El Grito contest with Mariachi, jalapeno-eating contest and traditional costume contest – as well as other exciting competitions. Mexican Fiesta blends old and new in colorful lakeside event