A car display was popular among attendees. Many people had their photos taken standing next to them. Photo by Chris Stone
A car display was popular among attendees. Many people had their photos taken standing next to them. Photo by Chris Stone

More than 5,000 people packed the park under the Barrio Logan end of the San Diego-Coronado bridge, celebrating the 46th annual Chicano Park Day.

Featuring traditional music and dance performances including ballet folklorico and Aztec Dance, the event also showcased classic lowrider cars, kids’ art workshops and various informational exhibits.

Vendors sold Mexican and Chicano food at the event marking the April 22, 1970, community takeover of the land.

Chicano Park boasts what has been called home to the country’s largest collection of outdoor murals — on freeway pillars that once might have overlooked a mere parking lot.

But a community protest sparked by San Diego City College student Mario Solis led to protests, an occupation and a successful drive to establish a promised park.

On July 1, 1970, $21.8 million was allocated for a 1.8-acre park.

Food and craft booths drew long lines at the event. Photo by Chris Stone
Food and craft booths drew long lines at the event. Photo by Chris Stone
People had their pictures taken against a mural. Photo by Chris Stone
People had their pictures taken against a mural. Photo by Chris Stone
Children with parents watch the dances of Mujeres en Resistencia. Photo by Chris Stone
More than 100 people registered to vote at the event. Photo by Chris Stone
Food and craft booths drew long lines at the event. Photo by Chris Stone
A young girl is creative at an arts and crafts table. Photo by Chris Stone
More than 5,000 people filled Chicago Park for the 46th anniversary which featured music, dance, food, cars and items for sale. Photo by Chris Stone
Members of Aztlan Tierra Liberacion Revolucion spoke at Chicano Park Day. Photo by Chris Stone
The event included displays for local organizations and businesses. Photo by Chris Stone
More than 5,000 people filled Chicago Park for the 46th anniversary which featured music, dance, food, cars and items for sale. Photo by Chris Stone
More than 5,000 people filled Chicago Park for the 46th anniversary which featured music, dance, food, cars and items for sale. Photo by Chris Stone
Members of Danza Azteca, Calpulli Mexihca performed in afternoon entertainment. Photo by Chris Stone
Members of Danza Azteca, Calpulli Mexihca performed in afternoon entertainment. Photo by Chris Stone
A car display was popular among attendees. Many people had their photos taken standing next to them. Photo by Chris Stone
A car display was popular among attendees. Many people had their photos taken standing next to them. Photo by Chris Stone
A member of Danza Azteca, Calpulli Mexihca performed in afternoon entertainment. Photo by Chris Stone
Vintage and custom cars, some of them lowriders lined neighborhood streets. Photo by Chris Stone
Members of Mujeres en Resistencia danced at Chicano Park Day. Photo by Chris Stone
Members of Mujeres en Resistencia danced at Chicano Park Day. Photo by Chris Stone
Attendees are reflected in a vintage car at the Chicano Park Day celebration. Photo by Chris Stone
A student from the Atheneum Art School helped paint a mural on a building. Photo by Chris Stone