Colorful parade, vibrant music and entertainment, beautiful costumes, folklorico dancing, art and food are all part of our rich heritage celebration. The parade is very special. We have the participation of schools, clubs, cultural group, businesses, famous people, and civic organzations.

Each festival exalts historical events in Mexican history. Cinco de Mayo honors the incredible victory battle by Benito Juarez against European military invasion.

Independencia -16 de Septiembre- celebrates Father Hidalgo's insurrection against Spanish rule of Mexico. Both celebrations commemorate the Mexican people's indomitable spirit to be free.

Fifteen years ago, the City of San Jose saw the Festivals in grave danger of being discontinued. The City was proud to host the important cultural celebration, but they were a financial failure.

The City officials asked the San Jose GI Forum, as a responsible financially reputable community organization, with a broad Hispanic American membership to come to the rescue.

After study and vigorous discussion, we decided that the Fiestas Patrias were too important to our community to let it die. We accepted the challenge.

With good management, a large volunteer labor force, and a lot of very valuable community goodwill, we have made the Fiestas Patrias successful, and it has been placed as one the biggest festivals in our Nation.

Come and enjoy the San Jose Fiestas Patrias is a family cultural event. Visit our photo album area, and get a basic visual overview of the Fiestas Patrias events.

We invite you to give your comments and suggestions, and if you have any pictures or stories about the San Jose Fiestas Patrias, we encourage you to make a contribution. Please use our contact form or call us at 408-288-9470.