Navy Pier’s Global Connections Series culminates May 1-3 with the triumphant return of Mexico Fest. Presented by ComEd and Sue Ling Gin Foundation Trust, in partnership with Consulado General de México en Chicago and Estado de Mexico, this free, three-day celebration is filled with live performances, music, art, and a Mercadito featuring artisan vendors, handmade goods, and authentic flavors for a fun-filled weekend. Mexico Fest also marks the return of the Ferrara Candy Wave Wall Stage – presented in partnership with Chicago’s own Ferrara Candy Company, as a centerpiece of cultural and entertainment programming during Navy Pier’s summer season.
This year’s featured cultural partners include the renowned Ballet Folklorico de Chicago, DJ Wero, and Rosalba Valdez, as well as artisans from the States of Mexico, Baja California, Oaxaca, and more. Programming will take place Friday through Sunday from 12 PM-5 PM across Navy Pier’s stunning lakefront campus, including the Family Pavilion and Food Experience Corridor, and the Ferrara Candy Wave Wall Stage.
Mexico Fest programming includes:
Fri. May 1
Ferrara Candy Wave Wall Stage Performances
- 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Pachanga DJs
- 4:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Opening Remarks
- 4:30 PM – 5 PM: EdoMex Ballet Folklorico
- 5:00 – 5:30 PM: EdoMex Mariachi
- 5:30 PM – 6:00 PM: Ballet Folklorico de Chicago
- 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Mariachi EDC
Family Pavilion and Food Experience Corridor
- 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Mercadito Artisan Market
Sat. May 2
Ferrara Candy Wave Wall Stage Performances
- 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM: DJ Wero MC’s
- 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM: DJ Wero
- 12:30 PM – 1:00 PM: Ballet Folklorico Mitotiani
- 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: EdoMex Mariachi
- 2:00 PM – 2:30 PM: DJ Wero
- 2:30 PM – 3:00 PM: EdoMex Ballet Folklorico
- 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: DJ Wero
- 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Sin Anestesia
Family Pavilion and Food Experience Corridor
- 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Mercadito Artisan Market
Sun. May 3
Ferrara Candy Wave Wall Stage Performances
- 12:00 – 5:00 PM: MC Kenny
- 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM: Ballet Folklorico Sones Mexicanos
- 12:30 PM – 1:00 PM: La Colocha
- 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: EdoMex Acts Mariachi
- 2:00 PM – 2:30 PM: EdoMex Ballet Folklorico
- 2:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Rosalba Valdez
- 3:30 PM – 4:00 PM: La Colocha
- 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Grupo Rimel
Family Pavilion and Food Experience Corridor
- 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Mercadito Artisan Market
Note: All activities, times and dates are subject to change.
ABOUT NAVY PIER
Located on Lake Michigan, Navy Pier is the most visited destination in the Midwest, stretching more than six city blocks and welcoming nearly 9 million annual guests. Originally opened in 1916 as a shipping and recreation facility, this Chicago landmark showcases over 50 acres of parks, restaurants, attractions, retail shops, sightseeing and dining cruise boats, exposition facilities, and more. The Pier celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2016 with the unveiling of the Centennial Wheel, Polk Bros Park, and Peoples Energy Welcome Pavilion. Today, Navy Pier continues to usher in its second century with ongoing redevelopment efforts including the 223-room Sable hotel, the all-transient Navy Pier Marina, and thrilling new attractions such as Flyover Chicago. The Pier is proud to present free programming designed to inspire and engage communities across the city and globe, including the #1 Fireworks display in the nation. For more information, visit NavyPier.org.