Joliet Central High School to Host 3rd Annual Kermés Celebration

Joliet Central High School will host their third annual Kermés, a celebratory festival to honor the life and legacy of Cesar Chavez, on Thursday, April 19, in the Joliet Central Student Center. The “Sí Se Puede” (Yes We Can) Festival is a free event open to the community, alumni, parents, students, staff and the general public.

The family-friendly festival begins at 4:30 p.m. with a performance of the national anthem by the Joliet Central Band. In addition, the Kermés Committee will read the winning essays of the Follow Your Dream Scholarship recipients. Local community organizations and student groups will have exhibit tables throughout the floor, highlighting this year’s theme of “Cultural Preservation, Community Pride, and Volunteerism.”

Joliet Central teacher Jeff Grimes said, “We’re excited to invite the community into our school to celebrate one of Joliet’s greatest assets: its cultural and ethnic diversity.”

At 5 p.m., student and community performances will include: student performances, Irish dancers, and musical groups Los Coroneles, Tamborazo Rancho Bonito and Tamborazo Los Talibanes.

Afterwards, a Kermés celebration will be held that includes food, entertainment, music, dancing and more. It will be a cultural experience for all ages. Please visit the Joliet Central “Si Se Puede” Kermes - Cultural Fun Fair Facebook event page for the latest updates.

Joliet Central teacher Colleen Seneker said, “Historically, Joliet has been a destination for newcomers from all over the globe. We want people to celebrate and be proud of the diversity that strengthens our city and makes it so unique.”
Click here to see photos from last year’s event.

The Joliet Central Kermes Committee also invites the community to come out to Chipotle on Jefferson St. on Tuesday, April 17th from 4-8pm. Please mention the JTHS Community Kermes when you order. The funds raised will help fund the Follow Your Dream scholarship.