For 57 years, we've used music, food, dance, and good company to do one thing: make sure Mexican culture is known, understood, and celebrated in West Michigan — on our own terms.
To preserve, promote, and celebrate Mexican heritage in West Michigan through programming, education, and community support that's accessible, year-round, and welcoming to everyone.
Founded in 1969 through a community effort led by Maurila Blakely Ortiz, MHAWM is a volunteer-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Every dollar we raise funds Fiesta Mexicana (free admission, forever), the Reinita Mexicana youth leadership program, cultural workshops, and direct partnerships with Mexican-owned small businesses.
Mrs. Maurila Blakely Ortiz organizes the first Fiesta Mexicana in Grand Rapids, with Mexican women and families across the neighborhood cooking, setting up, and keeping the party going alongside her. No stage, no budget. Just food, music, and neighbors.
The festival formalizes as the Mexican Heritage Association. The nonprofit structure allows tax-deductible donations and long-term planning.
A cultural leadership program launches, honoring Mexican heritage and community service. Today it spans five age divisions, ages 4 through 29.
Fiesta Mexicana moves to downtown Grand Rapids' Calder Plaza — where we've stayed ever since.
Every other major cultural festival cancels. We go small — a drive-through celebration, a virtual Grito — but we don't skip. The streak holds.
September 11–13. Free admission, as always. Mariachi, folklórico, 40+ vendors, El Grito, and a new logo chosen by public vote.
Admission has been $0 since 1969. It always will be. Culture shouldn't require a ticket.
Volunteer-led board. Mexican-owned vendors. Decisions made by people who grew up at the festival.
The festival is three days. The work — schools, Reinitas, workshops, advocacy — is every other day of the year.
Mexican, Mexican-American, Latine, or none of the above. If you show up, you belong here.
Full board bios coming soon. Interested in joining? Get in touch.
MHAWM is a registered 501(c)(3) public charity. Our annual IRS Form 990 is available on request and filed publicly. Here's the breakdown of 2025 program spending:
96% of every dollar goes directly to programming. EIN: 87-4171735.
