Alameda’s much-loved annual celebration of Latin culture, Fiesta Alameda, has been cancelled for 2025, according to West End Arts District (WEAD) Executive Director Tara Pilbrow.
“As some will have heard, we lost a major corporate sponsor in the middle of last year, and our state funding has been reduced as a result of budget cuts,” Pilbrow said. “Despite record-breaking attendance at our 2024 events, and the incredible generosity of so many of you during our end of year campaign, the Community Advisory Board of West End Arts District had to make the hard decision to cancel our Fiesta Alameda festival this year.”
Fiesta Alameda was so popular in 2023 that the food vendors were stretched to the limit, so WEAD expanded the food court offerings for the 2024 festival to include everything from Argentinian empanadas and BBQ to tamales, tacos, pupusas, and churros.
The event was a huge success, from the moment it opened with 12-piece Cumbia band “Petate” throughout the entire day of Latin music, dance performances, and other family-friendly activities.
And while it takes a ton of work to put on the festival, “it’s deeply gratifying when you see thousands of people enjoying the space, the entertainment and the festive family atmosphere of the day,” Pilbrow said after last year’s extremely popular fiesta. That makes this year’s cancellation even more difficult.
“While we know that our [WEAD’s] 2025 program will not disappoint—look forward to a month of photography-focused frolics, raw talent at the 8th Blues, Brews & BBQ, a series of intimate arts salons and more—we are still deeply saddened to lose such a joyous and meaningful community event,” Pilbrow said.
“Trying to build towards stability while so many others are shuttering their doors around us is a major challenge,” she continued. “Our goal is to build relationships with new corporate sponsors, and build a solid base of monthly supporters and fundraising champions to ensure that the West End Arts District can continue to elevate and unite our community through the arts.”
For those who would like to contribute to WEAD’s events and programs, Pilbrow suggested that members of the community consider becoming monthly sustainers, signing up to be WEAD fundraising champion, helping to build connections to corporate sponsors, or volunteering at an event.
“And finally, please come and enjoy our free arts programming,” Pilbrow added. “Your smiles and appreciation make all the hard work worthwhile!”
