Friendly House Tamale Dinner and Festival: Its History and its Ultimate Mission

By: Cindy G Castillo

 

It is the fundraising event that’s been held for the longest time in Arizona. 

 

Now in its 79th year, the Friendly House Tamale Dinner and Festival aims for the same warm and successful outcome this weekend. 

 

The event will be held this Saturday, Nov. 15th at the Arizona Center in Downtown Phoenix and promises to be a full-on celebration of Hispanic culture with a great purpose. 

 

“To us, it’s one of our major events where we still count on the funds to move on forward with our mission and with our programs,” Jose Vaquera, spokesperson for Friendly House said.

 

Throughout the decades, the event has become much more than a dinner. It is a festival that brings together musicians, artisans and performers in an afternoon that brings together families from all parts of the Valley. 

 

Friendly House employees volunteer their time on booths, providing information to the general public about the several programs the organization has to offer. 

 

“More than anything we want to make this grow, a big success and something that we’re proud of,” Vaquera added. 

 

The event will take place from noon to 10 p.m. and it will provide entertainment for all ages. From arts and crafts for the kids during the daytime to a few cocktails for parents later in the evening, there is something for everyone to enjoy. 

 

The Friendly House team feels truly grateful for the support the community has shown year after year to its mission and to this event in particular. 

 

“By them coming out and supporting us, it really assures us that we’re doing something right and that they feel like part of our history.” 

 

The Friendly House Tamale Dinner and Festival will be taking place this weekend on Saturday, November 15th from noon to 10 p.m. Don’t miss the opportunity to be able to contribute towards an organization that year after year devotes its efforts solely to our community.

For more information, visit www.tamaledinner.com