Shafter celebrating Cinco de Mayo next week

The Shafter Cinco de Mayo Festival kicks off on Saturday, May 4, at 10 a.m. with a parade downtown, presided over by Grand Marshal Diana Burnett. Burnett retired last year from the Shafter Police Department, ending her career with the rank of assistant police chief.

Burnett said that she has always loved this festival and is honored and humbled. “I am so thankful for the committee and the community of Shafter for this honor,” Burnett said .

Filled with colorful dancers, classic cars, floats and, of course, horses, the parade is a don’t miss for the festival.

Following the parade, the action moves down the street to Mannel Park. There, the day and evening will be filled with almost 100 vendors, full of information, jewelry, clothes, crafts and other retail items. There also will be plenty of food at the event, with tacos, burritos, hot dogs, hamburgers, barbecue and a variety of drink options available.

There will be a full slate of music and performers as well, including mariachis, folklorico dancers and local groups entertaining, as well as the popular group The Moonlighterz.