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 cultural programming, education, and community support that is accessible, year-round, and radically welcoming.
Founded in 1969 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 in local schools, and direct partnerships with Mexican-owned small businesses.
Maurila Blakely Ortiz organizes the first Fiesta Mexicana in Grand Rapids as a small community gathering. 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 year-round cultural leadership program for girls ages 5–18. Four age categories, community appearances throughout the year.
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, 20+ food 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.
