Our Museum supporters gathered under the July moon to celebrate Old Spanish Days at our annual La Fiesta del Museo fundraiser.
Museum President and event chair Sharon Bradford welcomed guests alongside the Fiesta Flower Girls, as they were invited to experience the new installation of Project Fiesta!
Once reaching the adobe courtyard the 300 guests enjoyed handmade tacos, specialty margaritas, and tequila tasting by Fuego Tequila. A selection of art, wine and gifts were available through a Silent Auction. Performances by the Junior Spirit Sarah Naretto and a folklorico group organized by Francisco Espinosa got the crowd excited about our Mexican Heritage.
The dinner bell rang and our elegantly dressed guests were invited to sit down for a beautiful Spanish meal prepared by Omni Catering. Bella Vista Designs created a Spanish Tablao feel with the use of black chiffon drape and red crystal chandeliers over the Upper Courtyard with furniture by Ventura Rentals.
The Spirit of Fiesta Alexis Simentales performed wearing a traditional bata followed by a live auction that included a 1920s Spanish silk shawl, a Fiesta party for 40 and a rockstar weekend to Desert Trip.
Next, dancers from the Linda Vega Dance Studio showcased Spanish shawls from the Museum’s collection while historian David Bolton narrated the history of the beautiful pieces. The fashion show was generously underwritten by Betsy Jones Zwick.
The historical show became the most lively as America’s Top Flamenco dancer Timo Nunez with guest dancers Ashley Almada and Corrie Jimenez performed a fiery performance with top musicians including Manuel Gutierrez.
After dessert guests hit the dance floor with Elements Band.
All photos on this post by Fritz Olenberger.
