Guatemalan Pride on Display at Concord Multicultural Festival

September 20, 2026 - 22:06

Cody Venecek, Monica De Leon and Patrick Venecek stood together at the Concord Multicultural Festival on Sunday, holding the Guatemalan national flag high above the crowd. The blue and white banner, with its central coat of arms, drew attention as the three posed for photos amid the bustle of the annual event.

The festival brought together residents from a wide range of backgrounds, turning the city into a showcase of food, music, dance and crafts from around the world. Families wandered between stalls offering traditional dishes, handmade goods and cultural displays, while performers took to the stage throughout the afternoon.

For the Venecek family and De Leon, the flag was more than a piece of fabric. It represented heritage, family roots and a chance to share Guatemalan identity with neighbors who might know little about the country. Events like this one give immigrant and first generation families a space to celebrate where they come from while also feeling part of the wider community.

Organizers said the gathering continues to grow each year, with more countries represented and more visitors attending. The atmosphere remained lively well into the day, with children running between tents and adults exchanging stories. By the time the festival wrapped up, the three flag bearers had become one of the many memorable images from an afternoon built on connection and cultural exchange.