It’s that time of year again, cabrónes. The 2026 Chicano Elegance Gala returns for its fourth year, taking a new temporary residency at San Bernardino’s Historic Arts District, Sole Alley. on Sept. 26 with this year’s theme being Brown and Proud.

Known for its traveling appearances throughout the gala’s four years of existence, founder and CEO of Chicano Elegance Foundation, Elvira Zamora said, “We want to spread the word to all communities that are not always seen; this is not just for one community but all communities.”

The Chicano Elegance Gala pays honor to the recent movement of Chicano/Latino culture in media, fashion and pop culture using many outlets and platforms to bring the community together. When asked what drives the energy to put on such an elaborate experience, Zamora states, “The movement and what it does for the community for our emotional and mental health is what keeps us going. It’s an experience (CEG), something that an event is not. At most events, people come to witness performances. At the gala, the guests are part of the night, the movement and take part in the experience.” 

According to the gala’s press release, “The program includes a runway show, live music, Indigenous cultural performances, visual art installations and curated educational programming. Featured performers include Yetzirah, hip-hop artist Jaguar “Jag” Arreola, Face vs It and Adelaide Pilar.”

This year’s gala will be a winning benchmark for the foundation as it is now recognized as an official non-profit. “In the past, the gala was working with other non-profits, but now our mission is bigger and we have a board … other goals we want to fundraise for …Doing the event each year without a plan, a crew of people and actual functioning 501c non-profit was not sustainable, the change was much needed for survival,” said Zamora. 

This year’s gala, along with red carpet arrivals, media interviews and a classic car show,  audiences will be dazzled with incredible visual performers that, “…will bring the vibes and aura to this year’s event… it’s truly a great show,” said Zamora.

I can hear the gritos already! 

“We want to plant the seed of orgullo (pride) in all communities. In the history of diaspora, we have always been painted as wrong, illegal, unworthy, los class; this is the resistance in joy and pride to push back that narrative because we are worthy. We are smart, we are talented, we are creative, we are elegance,” said Zamora.

Tickets and information about the gala can be found here.

“Proceeds from the event support cultural and community initiatives led by the Chicano Elegance Foundation.“