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!