BEYOND THE FESTIVAL
Year-Round Programs
Festival Mexicano is our flagship — but the work runs every month of the year.
Festival Mexicano is our flagship — but the work runs every month of the year.
MHAWM has preserved and celebrated Mexican heritage in West Michigan since 1969. The festival gets most of the attention — but between Septembers, we run cultural programs for young people, support Mexican-owned businesses, partner with local schools, and host community celebrations throughout the year. Here's what we do and how to be part of it.
Five pillars of year-round work, each rooted in sharing Mexican culture with our West Michigan community.
A cultural leadership program for girls ages 5–18 of Mexican descent. Reinitas appear at festival events and community celebrations throughout the year.
Pageant DetailsHands-on sessions covering Mexican music, folklórico dance, traditional cuisine, crafts, and holiday traditions. Open to the community.
Ask About a WorkshopCultural presentations, music and dance performances, and heritage education in K–12 classrooms across Kent County.
Bring Us to Your SchoolSeasonal gatherings that keep Mexican traditions alive year-round: Cinco de Mayo, Día de los Muertos, Las Posadas, and more.
See Upcoming EventsAmplifying Mexican-owned small businesses across West Michigan — vendor opportunities, promotion, and community connections.
Connect With UsMentorship and cultural leadership development for Mexican-American youth beyond the Reinita program.
Get InvolvedThe Reinita Mexicana pageant is more than one day in June. Participants prepare for months, learning about Mexican heritage, traditional attire, and cultural presentation. After coronation, Reinitas represent MHAWM at the festival and at community events throughout the year.
This is a leadership program disguised as a pageant. Girls gain confidence, deepen their cultural knowledge, and become visible representatives of Mexican heritage in West Michigan.
Learn About the PageantMexican traditions honored throughout the year in West Michigan.
Early May
Community gathering celebrating Mexican heritage and cultural pride. Open to all.
Late October / Early November
Traditional altar-building, ofrendas, and community remembrance honoring loved ones who have passed.
December
Traditional Christmas season processions reenacting Mary and Joseph's search for shelter, ending with fellowship and food.
Event dates announced via newsletter and social media. Subscribe below to stay in the loop.
Help run workshops, community events, and school visits. Year-round opportunities beyond festival weekend.
Sign Up to VolunteerEvery dollar funds programs: workshops, school partnerships, Reinita programming, and community events.
Support Our WorkSubscribe to hear about upcoming workshops, school programs, and seasonal events as they happen.
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