Annual Events
The Mexican Cultural Center of Northern California (MCCNC) strives to generate and provide information about México and Mexican customs and cultural traditions. We share knowledge about our roots by hosting and cohosting educational community events every year and by helping others in the greater Sacramento region to promote their community events.
MCCNC’s annual community events include an Annual Gala, Día de La Bandera, Reina Fiestas Patrias, and El Grito de Independencia.
Throughout the years MCCNC has presented a multitude of activities. Our roster of events is in constant evolution, but previously these events have included artistic exhibits showcasing local artists, as well as, artists from México at the Festival de La Familia, California State Fair, musical concerts and pageants in Sacramento’s Southside Park and in Sacramento’s great halls such as The Sofia Theatre, Memorial Auditorium and Crest Theatre. As well, the MCCNC has annual events conducted at Sutter’s Fort Historical State Park and the California State Capitol Building.
Día de la Bandera
February 24, 2026 | Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park | 2701 L St, Sacramento, CA 95816
National flag celebrations take place every year, during the week of February 24th in México. As a national holiday and to pay respect to the national flag, most schools have a ceremony that includes a parade, the singing of the national anthem, the dedication of dances and poetry.
This event is free to the public.
Reina Fiestas Patrias
September 7, 2025 | 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm | C.K. McClatchy High School Performing Arts Auditorium | 3066 Freeport Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95818
This annual pageant names a “Reina de las Fiestas Patrias” (Queen of the Civic Festival). The MCCNC and the Reina Fiestas Patrias Committee is proud to organize this event that has been a tradition in our community for over 80 years. This competition calls on the community and local businesses to support the efforts of a young woman to become the “Reina” (Queen).
El Grito de Independencia
The Mexican Cultural Center of Northern California (MCCNC) wishes to clarify details regarding this year’s El Grito de Independencia at the California State Capitol.
The official civic ceremony of “El Grito” — the historic call to independence — will take place as scheduled on Monday, September 15, at 7:00 PM on the West balcony of the State Capitol. This symbolic act, rooted in tradition and cultural pride, will be carried out to honor Mexico’s independence and the resilience of the Mexican people.
However, due to the current political climate and concerns for the safety of our community, there will not be a festival celebration with live music, booths, or vendors at the Capitol this year.
“Our mission remains strong: to celebrate and uplift Mexican culture, heritage, and history,” said Marco Rodriguez, President of MCCNC “While we will not host the larger festival this year, we invite the community to join us for the civic ceremony and to honor El Grito with family and community in meaningful ways”.
The MCCNC remains committed to organizing cultural programs that unite, educate, and inspire the community, and looks forward to future celebrations that reflect the richness of Mexican heritage in Northern California.
September 15, 2025 | 7:00 pm | West Balcony of the State Capitol Building
Since the late 20th century, the Hidalgo “Grito de Dolores” (Cry of Dolores) has become emblematic of Mexican independence. This event has since assumed an almost mythic status. Every year, millions of Mexicans, Mexican Americans and fellow revelers from around the world gather late the night before Mexican Independence Day (September 16th) to join a massive synchronized call and response.
This event is free to the public.
Annual Gala
October 18, 2025 | Kimpton Sawyer Hotel | 500 J St, Sacramento, CA 95814
The MCCNC Annual Gala is the cultural center’s main fundraising event and takes place in the Fall. Every year the cultural center selects a new theme about México and Mexican customs to showcase during the Gala. In past years, MCCNC Gala topics have included: El Cinema de México, La Música de México, La Historia del Mariachi, Asi Se Siente Mexico.
