The City of Tempe is rolling out the welcome mat for its 26th annual Tempe Tardeada - a celebration of Hispanic heritage packed with performances, arts and crafts, and mouth-watering local cuisine. The event, which is part of the ongoing Hispanic Heritage Month festivities, is set to take place this Sunday, Oct. 6, from noon to 8 p.m. at the Tempe Community Complex, according to a release from Tempe's official site.
Stepping into the complex at 3500 S. Rural Road, attendees will be greeted with the tunes of mariachis and traditional dances by groups like the Fiesta Mexicana Dance Company, as per the City of Tempe. But one shouldn't go there just for the entertainment. Workshops and a vibrant historical exhibition at the Tempe History Museum will also offer a meaningful glimpse into the Hispanic roots of Tempe. Plus, for those ready to beat the heat, organizers have promised shaded stages, indoor activities, and an air-conditioned food court.
The Tardeada isn't only about fun and food; it embodies a significant cultural tribute, remembering Hispanic families who have historically gathered on Sunday afternoons for a tardeada. "This festival recognizes the Hispanic people who came here and where the barrios were where ASU stands today. These were all farmers who lived here," Normalicia Blanco, a long-time organizer of the event, told Tempe governmental channels.
