MVCAF to host its First Annual MoVal Dia De Los Muertos Fiesta

Saturday, Nov. 1 the Moreno Valley Cultural Arts Foundation will host their first annual MoVal Dia De Los Muertos Fiesta. The event kicks off at noon at the Stoneridge Towne Centre parking lot located off Eucalyptus Avenue and Nason Street. The MVCAF’s celebration of Hispanic heritage will be a rich mix of various live entertainment, arts, crafts, vendor booths, contests, and a kid-friendly fun zone. MVCAF President/CEO, Richard L. F. Archer, Sr. said, “Our Foundation felt it was very important to put together a positive family event in keeping with the Hispanic tradition of honoring deceased family and friends. We are putting together a fiesta as a way to bringing together the people of Moreno Valley for an enjoyable celebration.” A procession featuring the Valley View High School marching band and Azteca Dance Group begins the festivities. Angel Baby Rodriguez is the official master of ceremonies. Actor/Rapper Vince Romo, better known as Assassin, Folklorico dance groups, a female mariachi musicians, comics, Sonny Rosete and Stoner Bob and professional jazz group J Mike & Friends are a sampling of what the audience will enjoy along with other entertainment. Those attending will be treated to custom and classic car displays that will include trophies for Best of Show. There will be outdoor vendor booths that include artists, crafts people, non-profit/public service organizations and commercial vendors. For those who want to get into spirit of the Dia De Los Muertos, there will be a costume contest with four categories; ages 10 and under, 11 – 17, adults, and families. There is also family memorial contest where families will decorate allotted spaces with flowers, photographs, mementos, and favorite foods and drinks that morning and the public will be able to cast their vote for their favorite. Memorials must be in place by 11 a.m. and taken down by 9 p.m. There will be prizes for the costume and family memorial contest winners. Judging will begin at 4 p.m. and prizes and trophies will be awarded shortly after. Applications and entry fees for the car show and memorial contest can be found at www.mvcaf.org. There will be plenty of food since the Stoneridge Towne Centre features several restaurants for every taste and budget. The Vanguard Cultural Arts Museum’s gallery, located in Suite A, will be have local artist Jesus Cruz doing a demonstration that afternoon along with showcasing the works of numerous fine artists. The fiesta wraps up at 9 p.m. and admission is free to the general public. There is still an opportunity to have a vendor booth and VIP tables are available. Those interested in participating in the family memorial contest, car show, or costume competition, may call 951-486-9700 or go to www.mvcaf.org. MVCAF is looking for volunteers to help with the event.