Mercado on Fifth, the Quad Cities’ premier Latino cultural market and small business incubator, will kick off its 10th anniversary season with an Opening Day celebration from 5-10 p.m., Friday, May 22.
The downtown outdoor market returns for the milestone season at its home location at 423 12th St., Moline.
Since its launch in 2016, Mercado on Fifth has evolved into a powerful platform for Latino entrepreneurs, artists, and community connection. Each summer and fall, the Friday night market draws thousands of residents and visitors through food, music, culture and commerce.
The Opening Day event promises a dynamic lineup of live entertainment, local vendors, and family-friendly activities. It also will feature a special ceremony honoring the community members, partners, and supporters who have helped Mercado grow into a cornerstone of the Quad Cities.
The program will begin at 5:15 p.m. and will feature a cultural processional of performers, community groups and award honorees as well as a commemorative 10-year celebration moment.
Guests also will enjoy a lineup of regional musical talent performing throughout the evening:
- Tamborazo La Magdalena (5:30 p.m.)
- Los Sembradores del Norte (6:30 p.m.)
- Crooked Cactus Band (7:45 p.m.)
- Grupo Innstinto (9:00 p.m. finale)
Additional patio performances and cultural activations also are planned to create a festival-style atmosphere.
As it has since it began, Mercado on Fifth continues to uplift small businesses through its vendor marketplace. Each week dozens of local entrepreneurs are on hand offering authentic food, handcrafted goods, and unique cultural products.
Highlighted vendors for the 2026 season include:
Food & beverage vendors – Abarrotes Carrillo LLC, Las Salsas Doña Mary, Mendoza Street Dogs, Oasis de Sabores, Luna Kitchen, Miguel’s Street Tacos, Restaurante El Mariachi, Xochimilko, Sweet Shardae and The Main Squeeze.
Retail & artisan vendors – Alex’s Toy Shop, Amore Creations, Crispy Soul, Inner Light Essentials, Estudio Meli, FRiO Sauce, Los Dos Grandes, Second Rodeo, Rosarios QC, World Relief QC and more.
Admission is $5 per person (children under 13 and seniors 65+ are free).
Co-founded by the late Robert ‘Bob’ Ontiveros, founder of Milan-based Group O, and his granddaughter Maria Ontiveros, Mercado on Fifth is dedicated to economic development, cultural preservation, and community connection through entrepreneurship and the arts. The executive director is Frances Williams.
For a decade, Mercado has supported hundreds of small businesses, created pathways for Latino entrepreneurs, and built a vibrant cultural destination in the Quad Cities.
