Located on the block of 34th and Avenue Q in Fort Madison, the annual Mexican Fiesta is held where many Mexican natives settled after coming up from Mexico to work as contractors for Santa Fe to build and expand the railroad. After years of working for the Sante Fe, losing everything they had to multiple fires, and fighting in World War I, the people of Fort Madison allowed the Mexican natives to be a part of the community. They made the land available for purchase in this part of town where they could be secluded and close to work. 

This neighborhood, or El Cometa, has celebrated Mexico's independence from Spain every year since 1921. The annual fiesta has been relevant to our community heritage since many Mexican contract workers were sent home or voluntarily went back to Mexico and fought in the war. Every year the committee works to bring food vendors offering authentic Mexican food, carnival rides and games, entertainment with dancing from La Fiesta Dance Troupe, live music, and adult beverages to honor the century-long tradition.