A beloved South Hutchinson tradition returns this weekend, as Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish prepares to host its 80th annual Fiesta, a three-day cultural celebration filled with food, music, games, and community spirit.
The festivities begin Friday, June 6, and run through Sunday, June 8. What began as a modest ice cream social decades ago has grown into the parish’s largest fundraiser and a hallmark event for the region's Hispanic community.
“We’re not exactly sure which year it started, but it’s been going on for about 80 years,” said Father Eric Weldon, pastor of the parish. “It started small—just some food and music—and now it’s a major event for the community and the church.”
Friday night kicks off with a steak dinner for the first 100 guests—first come, first served price is $20.00 —followed by a beer garden, live music, and a poker tournament. The evening’s entertainment includes classic American rock performed by VIERA Corel and the Brown family, while the Dinky Diner will serve its well-known burgers.
“There’s going to be poker at 7 p.m. and plenty of food and music to enjoy all evening,” Weldon said. “It’s a full slate.”
Saturday’s events begin at 4 p.m., timed to avoid the heat. Mexican food vendors will line the parish grounds, and local group Los Secretos will perform traditional Mexican music until dusk. A professional fireworks show by Kapow Fireworks is set to light up the night sky around 9:30 p.m.
Sunday’s programming includes a regular Mass schedule at 9 a.m. and noon, with Fiesta events starting at 11 a.m. Attendees can enjoy performances by folklorico dance groups from Wichita and Hutchinson, along with vocal performances by Jasmine, a young singer returning after a popular debut last year.
Traditional Mexican foods will be served throughout the weekend, including street tacos al pastor, carne asada, aguas frescas, and Micheladas.
“This is the biggest fundraiser for the parish,” Weldon said. “The proceeds go directly toward the operation of the church, which supports between 350 and 425 families.”
The Fiesta also celebrates the deep cultural roots of the Hispanic community in South Hutchinson, a legacy dating back to the 1920s and ’30s. Baseball leagues, fast-pitch softball, and cultural traditions have helped shape the identity of this vibrant parish, established in 1927.
“This is more than a fundraiser,” said Weldon. “It’s a celebration of faith, family, and tradition—something that brings everyone together.”