La Pachanga del 5 de Mayo

On May 5, 2007 The Grand Rapids Sister Cities-Mexico Committee successfully hosted the 1st annual "5 de Mayo Pachanga" at The Intersection in Grand Rapids. Close to one hundred people enjoyed authentic food by Maggie's Kitchen, El Ganadero and El Matador; and a wide variety of music such as La Famiglia, Grupo Falcón and South Side Evolución.

Of course, all this was possible thanks to the generosity of our sponsors; Chuck & Stella Royce, Mercantile Bank, Grand Rapids Community College, Kent Beverage and West Side Beer Distributing. Thank you also to the people of the Arena District for their support in selling tickets and promoting the event.

The party began promptly at 7:00 PM with GRCC's Mariachi Band and Gabriel Estrada (who had been playing since 5:00 at various venues in downtown) and ended sometime around midnight. We were able to see young people, middle aged adults and even families with their young kids; thank you all for attending this first annual event!

Thank you also to WOOD TV8 and the Grand Rapids Press for their promotional support. Rosie Del Valle and La Maquina Musical where also on location broadcasting Live.

Congratulations to Oswaldo Garces, winner of the trip for two people to Zapopan, Jalisco (courtesy of Dolphin Travel).

Stay tuned for our next event in 2007 and, of course for Pachanga 2008!