Last Sunday the historic Plaza del Mariachi in Boyle Heights was taken over by Barrio Boogie, an occasional street fair with music, dancing and the well-know love in the East parts of Los Angeles (don't worry,we're not gonna get into the endless “what's the real Eastside” debate) for all things vintage. Billed as a 1940s- and 1950s-themed musical festival, Barrio Boogie is much more: a meeting point for everyone interested in Boyle Heights culture and, of course, the rich Chicano culture that is such an important part of the Los Angeles experience. Low-rider clubs, vintage cars, motorcycle clubs, swing dancers, Pachuco revivalist, zoot-suiters, artisans reviving roots culture from Mexico, craftsmen and women, food vendors, local dandys, old-timers, punk rockers, young kids, artists—everyone gathered together to stroll, look, peacock, dance and participate in the general merriment. This jumping-est event happens a few times a year (check the Barrio Boogie Facebook page for details) in a wonderful Boyle Heights plaza that, although only 5 minutes from Downtown and 15 minutes from Silver Lake, has been largely undiscovered by many people west of the Los Angeles river. All photos by Gustavo Turner.
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