A folklorico dancer prepares for her performance. Photo by Brenda Gonzalez

Market Street was filled with the smell of carne asada, music from Tamborazo Rancho Alegre, and painted skull faces for Redding’s fourth annual Hispanic Heritage celebration on Friday.

Inspired by Tehama County’s celebration, which was spearheaded by Red Bluff Mayor J.R. Gonzalez, entrepreneur Araceli Gutierrez has connected with Shasta leaders to bring Hispanic culture to the spotlight in Redding for the last four years.

The event was supported by Viva Downtown, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the cultural and economic development of downtown Redding.

The heart of the celebration honored unity in diversity and strength in culture. Featuring local businesses Antojitos de Los Buenos and Corning Ballet Folklorico, the event highlighted the many areas of culture that Latinos and Hispanics contribute to locally. .

Gutierrez said her main hope was for the community to “come out and learn about our cultures and traditions.”

“Our voices are here, we’re also leaders, ” Gutierrez said. “We contribute to the economy.”

See more photos from the event below.