Springfield Sister Cities Association is pleased to announce the return of Taste of Tlaquepaque on Friday, October 18, at 7 p.m. at Drury University’s Clara Thompson Hall. The concert celebrates Springfield’s 21-year sister city relationship with Tlaquepaque, Jalisco, Mexico.
This year’s theme, “Jalisco es México,” pays tribute to the colorful state of Jalisco, the birthplace of many of Mexico’s most cherished cultural traditions. Attendees will enjoy an evening filled with rich flavors, captivating art, and lively music from Springfield’s Mexican sister city.
This year’s featured Tlaquepaque artisan is celebrated ceramicist and singer/songwriter/guitarist, Paco Padilla, whose art beautifully captures the essence of Mexican culture. Tlaquepaque’s renowned mariachi band, Viva Xalisco, headlines the concert at 7pm, showcasing the vibrant sounds of traditional Mexican music.
Tickets for Taste of Tlaquepaque are $50 for general admission and $25 for students. Guests attending Taste of Tlaquepaque will have a memorable night of fun and entertainment, and they will also support SSCA’s cultural programs that promote “Peace Through People.” These programs foster friendship and understanding between people of different countries and cultures.
Upgrade your experience with a $375 sponsorship that includes two tickets to the concert and two tickets to the pre-party. The pre-party starts at 5 p.m. and features drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and time to mingle with the talented artists and musicians from Tlaquepaque. You’ll also get an up-close view of Paco Padilla’s artwork and the opportunity to bid on the silent auction.
“Taste of Tlaquepaque is a celebration of our enduring friendship with the people of Tlaquepaque,” said Lisa Bakerink, Executive Director of Springfield Sister Cities Association. “This event highlights the beauty and richness of Mexican culture and also strengthens the bonds of friendship and understanding between our communities.”
Don’t miss this chance to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Mexico and support a great cause. For more information or to purchase tickets or sponsorships, visit peacethroughpeople.org/taste.
Special thanks to current event sponsors: The Oslo, Tony and Linda Shalloup, Central Bank and Central Trust, Forvis Mazars, Great Southern Bank, Missouri State University International Programs, O’Reilly Auto Parts, The Permit Shop, Simmons Bank, Springfield Public Schools, Rob and Sally Baird, Tom and Chandler Carlson, Tom Finnie, Tom and Kim Prater, Clif and Gail Smart, Michael and Suzanne Thomas, Fisk Transportation, Kitchen Refresh, Mid-Missouri Bank, Randy and Lisa Bakerink, Drury University, Carolyn Gerdes, Mike and Nancy Hoeman, Marshall and Winter Kinne, Wally and Joyce Munden, Denny and Mary Pilant, Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, and Volt Credit Union.
For more information about Taste of Tlaquepaque and other Springfield Sister Cities events, visit peacethroughpeople.org.
