Airdronians filled the Bert Church theatre with the beautiful sounds of Mexican music, the delicious aroma of Mexican food, and the contagious delight of Mexico Independence Day yesterday.

Despite not occurring until Monday, the Viva Mexico Festival took place yesterday the business of the celebration. However, it didn`t stop the festival from going off with a bang.

Lore Perez, organizer and planner of the event, said she was excited to return for the second time annually.

"It's just to share a little bit of the Mexican culture with the city of Airdrie. We have been here for two years and the first year we hosted at Nose Creek Park."

Perez said the first year saw a great response from Airdrie, but there was one major issue.

"We had a great response, the people were coming and going. It was a little bit longer than today. Unfortunately, it was outdoors and the weather didn't help a lot. I missed the warm weather from Mexica and it rained that day and was a little bit chilly."

Perez said she was excited to share the love of Mexico with the rest of her city.

"As a Canadian now, we know we love the warm weather, the pool, the beach, and all the nice drinks and everything."

Originally, Perez came up with the idea for the festival after watching Airdrie offer other great events for its people.

"It just started since I started with Volunteer Airdrie. I was able to witness all the great events that Airdrie has to offer to the community and I thought, 'why not host my own festival'."

A photo booth, Mexican food, desserts, jewelry, arts, and crafts were all available for visitors to interact with and learn about.

"I know a couple of Mexicans and I know a couple of Columbians, but I am not aware of how large our Mexican population is, but I know there are a few Latino people around here. But, this is not just for them, it's for everyone."

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