Annual Catrinas and Catrines Contest happening soon

SAN LUIS, Ariz. (KYMA) - A local tradition celebrating Mexican culture and heritage is returning to Yuma.

Arizona Western College (AWC), the Mexican Consulate in Yuma, and the Yuma County Arts and Culture Group are inviting the community to participate in the annual Catrinas and Catrines Contest.

The contest is taking place next Thursday, October 29, at 3:30 p.m. at AWC's Yuma Campus, with participants having a chance to win cash prizes, including $400 for first place.

"The importance and I think our goal as we collaborate together is really to expose our community, our students, into their culture, their roots. Being so close to the border, a lot of us lose that tradition and culture or we're just not aware. So, I think it's just bringing that awareness," said Martha Cordova, Director of Transfer Services at AWC.

Registration is free.

Organizers said the event is an opportunity for the community to celebrate its cultural roots while keeping traditions alive for future generations.