Hearing about The Big Event, it might be exciting to learn that there’s myriad live entertainment planned. Or, for hardcore foodies, the thought of an enchilada cook-off, as well as a chile eating contest might get mouths watering. But knowing that proceeds from the three-day celebration will benefit Cancer Aid Resource and Education, Inc. (CARE) will probably warm hearts, knowing the event benefits a great cause.
Also known as La Gran Fiesta, The Big Event was established as a fun, creative way to raise both awareness and money for the organization, which offers support to families who have been affected by cancer.
“This is first and foremost, a way for people in the community to learn about CARE,” said Yolanda Diaz, founder, president and executive director of CARE. “As people get to know about CARE, a couple of things will happen: first, people that reside in Dona Ana County and need assistance will know about it. And secondly, people that are looking for a local nonprofit to support will know that that’s us.
“We have people coming from all over the country – Arizona, Texas, California, Colorado – for the event.”
The inaugural event kicks off Friday at noon with the Juan “Chiefy” Rosales Golf Tournament at Red Hawk Golf Course.
The golf tournament was the idea of Rosales and his siblings, Diaz explained.
“This is their way to pay it forward because we had helped their father, who sadly, died from cancer last year.”
Following the golf tournament are opening ceremonies at 6 p.m. at Plaza de Las Cruces.
The event continues Saturday, with a schedule packed full of activities to choose from. There’s the fourth annual Jubilee of Life Walk starting at 10 a.m. at the downtown plaza. Watch contestants vie for the culture or community title during The Big Event Pageant at 3 p.m. Entertainment includes live music and a performance by the New Mexico Gunfighters Association Wild West Entertainment.
The Big Event will conclude Sunday with more live music, plus the first ever Roberto’s Enchilada Cook-Off Contest.
Attendees can purchase tickets to taste enchiladas from the different restaurants, and it will be up to them to vote on the winner.
Later in the day, those that are brave enough can compete in the Lumbre Chile Eating Contest.
There are no admission fees, but organizers will be seeking donations throughout the weekend. They’ve partnered with Pixanthropy, a company that helps organizations raise money by allowing non-profits to tell their story through mementos.
Organizers are also encouraging attendees to take their own seating to the festivities.
Diaz emphasized that The Big Event offers entertainment for families and is a fun way to spend the weekend, but she hopes people will use the opportunity to learn more about the cause they’re supporting.
“For me, there’s a personal aspect to it,” she said. “I have a son who’s a three-time melanoma survivor, but I also lost my father to cancer. The struggle is real, the pain is real, and the loss is real. When you think of that devastation that really becomes a drive to help others.”
In 2015, CARE provided financial assistance to 79 families whose relatives were affected by cancer totaling approximately $95,000.
“We really operate from the generosity of the community,” Diaz added. “We’re expecting about 5,000 people throughout the weekend, but I guess time will tell.”
IF YOU GO
What: The Big Event
Where: Plaza de Las Cruces, 100 N. Main Street
When: Friday-Sunday, start times vary
Cost: Free, bring your own seating
Info: carelascruces.org