Announcing Mercado on Fifth's Season 9

MOLINE, IL May 5, 2025 — Mercado on Fifth’s ninth season kicks off on Friday, May 23, 2025, on 5th Avenue at the gateway to Moline’s historic Floreciente neighborhood. Patrons can start the long Memorial weekend at Mercado. The weekly open-air market will run for 19 consecutive Fridays from 5 PM to 10 PM through September 26, 2025.

A Taste of Latin America & Unique Retail Finds
Mercado on Fifth continues to be the go-to destination for authentic Latin cuisine, with favorites such as tacos, burritos, tamales, pupusas, empanadas and guisados, alongside other diverse flavors from across the Americas. Sweet treats such as mangonadas, churro cheesecake, and fresh fruit cups will also be available.

For those looking to shop, the market features a variety of handcrafted goods, fashion accessories, and items imported from Latin America. From handmade jewelry and Lucha Libre masks to artisanal home decor and custom tumblers, visitors can browse an eclectic mix of treasures.

 (For a full list of vendors, visit https://www.mercadoonfifth.org/news)

Exciting Entertainment & Cultural Experiences
Beyond the food and shopping, Mercado on Fifth is a hub for live entertainment. This season will feature a dynamic lineup of Latin music, including banda, rock en español, salsa, and tributes to iconic artists. Traditional dance performances from Quad Cities Ballet Folklorico and Danza de Santa Maria will return, along with exhilarating Lucha Libre wrestling by SCW Pro Wrestling, a boxing exhibition, and a classic car show hosted by Latin Persuasion.

(The full entertainment and arts lineup can be found here, www.mercadoonfifth.org/news)

Rinconcito de Arte Returns

The “art corner” at Mercado will return for a second year.  For 2025, visitors can expect to see multi-media art pieces from local Latine artists, such as paper mache artist Victor Granados. QR codes will be available at each display so patrons can learn more about the artist and view more of their work.  All pieces will also be available for purchase directly from the artists.

(The full artist lineup can be found here, www.mercadoonfifth.org/news)

Thank You to Our Sponsors
Mercado on Fifth extends its gratitude to its 2025 season sponsors, including Modern Woodmen of America, Hiland Toyota, The Justin Cook Team at State Farm, Ascentra Credit Union, MidAmerican Energy Foundation, Riverside Family Dental, Group O, Lindquist Ford, Bally’s Casino, and Old National Bank. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Executive Director Frances Williams at frances@mercadoonfifth.org.

About Mercado on Fifth
Mercado on Fifth fosters economic opportunity and cultural preservation by supporting Hispanic entrepreneurs, artists, and small business owners in the Quad Cities. Through its weekly open-air markets, seasonal celebrations, and year-round business development programs, Mercado empowers minority entrepreneurs with access to capital, bilingual business training, and technical assistance. The organization also strengthens community identity by hosting traditional music, dance, and artisan vendors, ensuring Hispanic heritage remains visible and celebrated. Since its founding, Mercado has helped launch and support more than 65 businesses while providing paid opportunities for cultural practitioners.

Stay Connected
For updates, including the full musical lineup, visit www.MercadoOnFifth.org or follow Mercado on Fifth on Facebook at facebook.com/mercadoonfifth.

Join us at Mercado on Fifth and experience the Latin heart and soul of the Quad Cities this summer!


Colores del Mercado: A Tequila & Mezcal Experience

Explore the Flavors of Mexico at Mercado on Fifth’s Tequila & Mezcal Tasting Event

Quad Cities nonprofit hosts inaugural tasting event in Downtown Moline on May 2, 2025


MOLINE, IL March 21, 2025 - Mercado on Fifth is hosting a unique celebration of culture and community with its inaugural Tequila & Mezcal Tasting on Friday, May 2, 2025, from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. The event will be held at Mercado on Fifth (423 12th St.) in downtown Moline, with an exclusive VIP hour from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM.


Organizers have curated an evening filled with unique tequila and mezcal tastings, delicious culinary pairings from Mercado vendors Mi Oaxaca, Creative Signature Cuisine and Delicias & Sabores; live music from local band Grupo Nuevo Estilo; and a visual walk through the history of Mercado as it looks toward its 10-year anniversary in 2026. Attendees will embark on a sensory journey all while supporting Mercado’s mission to celebrate Latin culture and provide economic opportunities in the Quad Cities.


Tequila & Mezcal Tasting Experience

Breakthru Beverage and G&M Distributors will educate guests on the production of tequila and mezcal, from agave cultivation to the distillation process. Guests will learn about the different types of these iconic spirits, their distinct flavors, aging processes, and tasting notes.  


A Creative Touch: Live Art with Featured Artist, Victor Granados

Mercado is thrilled to invite local folk artist Victor Granados to demonstrate traditional paper mache piñata-making at the event. The art piece created during the event will be raffled off at the end of the event. Granados, who has previously collaborated with Mercado on several projects, most recently designed the public altar and a special skull float for 2024’s Día de los Muertos celebration. His work brings family together, with his wife, Yessy, and their children contributing to Mercado’s many artistic endeavors.


Exciting Raffle Prizes and Mercado Merchandise

Event attendees will have the chance to win exciting raffle prizes, including:

  • A season pass for a family of four to Mercado’s 2025 summer season

  • A custom paper mache art piece created by Victor Granados

  • Gift certificates to local Latin restaurants

  • Full bottles of tequila and mezcal featured at the event

  • Mercado merchandise, including t-shirts, hats, and tumblers, (also available for purchase just in time for the opening day of Mercado’s outdoor public market on May 23, 2025).

Ticket Options:

Mercado on Fifth is offering four ticket tiers for this exclusive event:

  • $30 per person (advance ticket): General admission, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

  • $40 per person (at the door): General admission

  • $50 per person (VIP ticket): Early access from 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM, exclusive food pairings, extra time with experts, and two (2) raffle entries

  • $100 per person (Sponsor ticket): Includes VIP access, two (2) raffle entries, Mercado t-shirt, recognition as an event sponsor, and promotional gratitude at the event and beyond 


RSVP Now!

Tickets can be purchased through Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/colores-del-mercado-a-tequila-mezcal-experience-tickets-1296181165759?aff=oddtdtcreator


About Mercado on Fifth:

Mercado on Fifth fosters economic opportunity and cultural preservation by providing a platform for Hispanic entrepreneurs, artists, and small business owners in the Quad Cities. Through its weekly open-air markets, seasonal celebrations, and year-round business development programs, Mercado empowers minority entrepreneurs with access to capital, bilingual business training, and technical assistance. The organization also strengthens community identity by hosting traditional music, dance, and artisan vendors, ensuring Hispanic heritage remains visible and celebrated. Since its founding, Mercado has helped launch and support more than 65 businesses while providing paid opportunities for cultural practitioners. Its programs connect generations, offering hands-on workshops, performances, and mentorship that engage youth and reinforce cultural pride.


For more information and updates on the event, visit Mercado on Fifth's website and follow us on Facebook @MercadoOnFifth.