On Saturday, May 2, from noon-5 p.m. the Kewanee Commission on Human Relations will be hosting a Cinco de Mayo celebration at Northeast Park. This event is made possible with the help of the Cinco de Mayo Committee and supported by more than 25 sponsors.

The celebration will be a day packed full of fun and activities for the whole family to enjoy. All are welcome to join the celebration with music, food and festivities.

Cinco de Mayo is a day of celebration that commemorates El Día de la Batalla de Puebla, when Mexican forces led by General Ignacio Zaragoza defeated the French army in 1862 under the leadership of President Benito Juárez. The victory became a symbol of Mexican unity and resilience, and today the holiday is celebrated across the United States as a tribute to Mexican heritage and culture.

During Kewanee’s celebration, food lovers will have plenty to choose from, with a wide variety of options featuring authentic and classic Mexican and American food favorites. Guests can enjoy live music from DJ Cano and Trece de Junio, featuring tamborazo music, a high-energy regional Mexican style known for its festive brass and percussion sound.

Families can enjoy bounce houses, an inflatable soccer dart game and a Children’s Entrepreneurs Market, where youth ages 7 to 17 will sell their own crafts, baked goods, clothing and more. Activities will include face painting, balloon art by Toto Johnson, a potato sack race and a chancla tossing game. A photo backdrop area will be available for guests to take pictures and capture memories of the event.

Health and wellness will also be part of the celebration. OSF Healthcare, Hammond‑Henry Hospital, Henry and Stark County Health Departments, First Choice Healthcare Clinics and ImpactLife will host a health fair offering free screenings for blood pressure, glucose and cholesterol. Hammond‑Henry will provide physical therapy demonstrations, and ImpactLife will accept blood donations through its mobile unit.

Volunteer support from Central Junior High, Kewanee High School and Wethersfield High School students will help ensure event safety and supervise inflatable attractions.

Individuals interested in volunteering can contact 773‑542‑8389. Volunteers will receive a free taco meal as a thank you for their time and support.