My name is Abril Pando Rodriguez, and I am 23 years old. I am the director of Cinco de Mayo Lyons Ks. In addition to organizing this event, I also choreograph the dances for our Lyons Folkloric dancers. I create digital flyers, posters, and manage our website and Facebook page.
I ran Yeraldi’s Boutique in Lyons, which unfortunately was destroyed in November 2023. I also have a treat page, Ari’s Chocolate Covered Sweets, where I offer desserts, party decor, balloon garlands, flower arrangements, and more. I enjoy staying busy and learning new things, which is why I have a variety of hobbies.
I am a mother of three. I have a six-year-old, a two-year-old, and a one-year-old. I am always busy, but I am grateful for the responsibilities I have. I always have my children with me during these events. I’m so thankful for my husband and family for the invaluable support. They encourage me to keep doing what I love and am passionate about.
In 2022, I began reaching out to several individuals from the Chamber of Commerce. I wanted to bring the Cinco de Mayo celebration back in Lyons. It had been over a decade since we last had a celebration, and I found it deeply disappointing, as I recall the joy I experienced attending Cinco de Mayo in Lyons during my childhood. I also participated in the folkloric groups and even performed them at Central School during that time. Prior to 2022, I recognized the significance of celebrating Cinco de Mayo and reached out to individuals for information. However, I received limited guidance and was only informed of the hardships it took to organize such an event.
I am passionate about event planning. I derive immense satisfaction from organizing events, as the outcomes are consistently rewarding.I not only organize Cinco de Mayo but have organized fundraisers , back to school festivals, farmers markets, pop up shops , and more.
As a mother, I aspired to educate my children and instill in them a deep appreciation for our cherished and beautiful Mexican traditions. It concerned me that Cinco de Mayo was not being celebrated in our small town of Lyons, despite the presence of a significant Hispanic population in the surrounding areas. I firmly believe that celebrating Cinco de Mayo in Lyons is of utmost importance, given our close proximity to Hispanic neighbors.
We love welcoming others and are always eager to share our culinary delights, musical heritage, and cultural practices with others. The joy of witnessing the community coming together to celebrate our Mexican culture is truly amazing and heartwarming . I have had the privilege of welcoming attendees from various locations, including Sterling, Little River, Lindsborg, McPherson, Wichita, Hutchinson, Dodge City, Garden City, Albuquerque, NM, Chase, Hays, Kannapolis, Great Bend, and Bushton.
In 2024, our event attracted approximately 500 to 550 attendees. By 2025, the attendance had increased to 550 to 625, this concerned me as Workman Park started to look way too small and tight but we made it work!
I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support of those who contribute to the success of this event each year. I eagerly look forward to what Cinco de Mayo 2026 will look like! I am committed to keep striving for excellence in serving our community and attendees. Thank you sincerely for your unwavering support. May God bless us all.