ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) – Some downtown Rockford streets close this Sunday to make room for the South Main Mercado celebration.
The South Main Mercado is a vibrant outdoor market in Rockford, Illinois, celebrating the city’s rich Hispanic and Latino heritage.
The festivities come back for a third year with more vendors, more food trucks, and a second entertainment stage.
“Like you say in Spanish ‘me siento orgullosa’ like really happy and full of love, I mean it’s beautiful, it’s really cool to see the people. It’s all an expression of Rockford and the Latino community that thrives here,” Alexis Izquierdo, with CCS, a sponsor of the event, said.
The free celebration also includes live music like Spanish Rock, Mariachi, folkloric dancers and more at the Nicor Community Initiative Stage.
The event features live entertainment from local artists, a diverse array of local vendors offering jewelry, clothing, art, and more, alongside food trucks and community organizations providing bilingual support services.
The event was family-friendly and free to the public, offering a unique opportunity to engage with local small businesses and experience the cultural richness of south Rockford.
Also, the Rockford Park District provided a Family Fun Zone offering games, interactive activities, face painting and a crafting corner.
The event is presented by Hard Rock Casino, with the organizations Ethnic Heritage Museum, Comprehensive Community Solutions, South West Ideas for Today and Tomorrow and La Onda NFP as founders of the event.
South Main Mercado was the Winner of the 2024 Illinois Lt. Governor Award for Revitalization in Promotional Approach Category.
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