Hundreds of locals flocked to Chicano Park in Barrio Logan on Saturday for the 43rd Annual Chicano Park Day.
The event honored the history and legacy of Chicano Park, which was established by Chicano activists on April 22, 1970. This year, the park party held even greater significance since Chicano Park was recently landed a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.
The outdoor event featured live music, dancing, art, workshops, food, vendors and a car show boasting around 350 lowrider vehicles.
Victor Ochoa, Chicano Park muralist and member of the Chicano Park Steering Committee, told NBC 7 that organizers expected between 30,000 and 40,000 people to attend Saturday's party.
Ochoa said the annual celebration is a way to unite the Chicano community and celebrate Chicano heritage.
He says the significance – and authenticity – of Chicano Park is still as strong as it was when it was established more than four decades ago in San Diego’s Barrio Logan neighborhood.
“This is a community park that was taken over 43 years ago. In our surroundings, where things are always under gentrification, Chicano Park stands as a little part of our Barrio Logan community,” Ochoa told NBC 7.
“It feels like [Chicanos] are being recognized in this society,” he continued. “This is a place where we can feel proud of our heritage and our history. This park brings us home.”
Local
To learn more about Chicano Park and Chicano Park Day, visit this website.
