Wave Staff Report
CULVER CITY — The city has unveiled the official logo for the 75th anniversary of Fiesta La Ballona, which will be held Aug. 28-30 in Veterans Memorial Park.
First held in 1951, Fiesta La Ballona was born from a partnership between the city and the Culver City Chamber of Commerce. What began as a weeklong celebration of Culver City’s early heritage has grown into one of the city’s most treasured community traditions.
The city’s Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department is inviting local artists to share their unique perspectives through a special community art exhibition with the theme “What Does Fiesta La Ballona Mean to You?”
Artists are encouraged to interpret the theme in their own way. Works may commemorate personal memories of Fiesta La Ballona, the people and traditions that make the festival special, the city’s history and community spirit, moments of joy, connection, and celebration, a vision for the festival’s future and abstract or symbolic interpretations of community, belonging, and celebration
All artistic styles and mediums are welcome, including painting, drawing, photography, printmaking, mixed media, fiber arts, ceramics, digital art (printed for display), sculpture, and other original works.
Selected artwork will be displayed during the 75th annual Fiesta La Ballona celebration, giving thousands of festival attendees the opportunity to experience the creativity and talent of local artists.
Artists who live, work, attend school or have a meaningful connection to Culver City are eligible to enter. Artists of all experience levels are encouraged to apply.
Artists may submit one original work for consideration. Entries much contain the title of each artwork, a brief artist statement (100–200 words) describing how the artwork relates to the exhibition theme and artist contact information, including email address and phone number. Entries are due Aug. 14.
The city also is looking for photos, posters, programs, trophies, hats, boots, costume pieces, vintage Fiesta attire, and other keepsakes that help tell the story of this beloved Culver City tradition. Select physical items may be considered for display as part of the 75th anniversary celebration.
From its earliest days, Fiesta La Ballona was designed as a celebration for the entire community, bringing together residents, families, performers, athletes and visitors. Over the decades, the celebration has evolved. It has been held in different months, taken on new themes, and grown into a true “Festival of the People.”
But no matter the year, the season, or the number of days, Fiesta has remained a time for the community to come together, relax, celebrate, and enjoy family, friends, and neighbors.
Each year, thousands of people from across the region and beyond visit Culver City to take part in the tradition that is Fiesta. It is a community gathering, an embrace of togetherness, and a fond farewell to summer.
