Every second Tuesday Barrio Logan comes alive with music, art and good food. Café de por Vida (Coffee for Life) originally organized the event over four years ago. Aromas of handmade tortillas, tacos and grilled corn welcomed people arriving to Logan Avenue.
People gathered at open doors of art galleries to see different sculptures and paintings from local artists. Families strolled through Barrio Logan with faces of joy, enjoying churros and beer throughout the night. During a fresh but chilly night by San Diego Bay the weather led families stop to try some hot drinks like café or Mexican champurrado from the vendors.
Many galleries taught people about Mexican culture and indigenous roots, including Aztec emperors with the colors and feathers that identify the cultures. Mexican-American culture was on display as well with different paintings, drawings and music showing the Barrio Logan spirit.
A flea and art market also offered visitors unique handmade jewelry including colorful sets of earrings and bracelets made from tiny beads called Chaquiras. These Chaquiras formed the shapes of flowers, stars and animals. Hand-embroidered blouses and bags had the faces of the famous Mexican personalities like Frida Kahlo and Selena. Murals depicting an Aztec king after a battle are on display as well as a variety of garment, on sale. All the art pieces and food have Mexican folklore infused into their designs.
The flea market, however, was the main attraction of the night. At the entrance, hot churros vendors welcomed the crowd with the smell of sweet desserts; as old school hip-hop played in the background. The patchouli and sandalwood incense hits visitors as they enter transporting them into a spiritual and ancestral experience that calms and relaxes their nerves.
Abril Ramirez, café manager and coordinator of del Barrio Market, “This market is different than others because it includes art, culture and food from local small business from the same street, to support street vendors that are starting with their changarrito (small shop), “
Said Abril Ramires café manager and coordinator of del Barrio Market.
Ramirez also mentioned that this event is a platform for local artists who want to showcase their creations to the public.
“Barrio art crawl is where people from other cultures can learn and taste what the Mexican-American culture is about without going too far,” Ramirez said.
As the night flowed the cultural diversity did too, faces of surprise and delight filled the market.
The experience is diverse, unique, and for everyone.
