Copa Cultural Night Market: A Whirlwind of Excitement Unfolds!

The city of Maricopa is gearing up for the highly anticipated Copa Cultural Night Market, returning for its fourth edition on February 21, 2025.

Yesterday at Copper Sky Recreational Complex, event planners worked diligently to prepare the venue. They set up stages, inflated colorful decorations, and spray-painted vibrant flowers onto the grass, spelling out “Copa Cultural.”

Today, the newly added Copa Zoo was finalized, featuring an array of exotic animals such as Dusty the camel, a zebra, miniature donkeys, and various reptiles and birds. This innovative attraction aims to highlight the cultural significance of animals around the world.

“Animals have shaped cultures and traditions around the world,” said Nick Brooks, the city’s Event Sponsorship Coordinator. He emphasized the importance of integrating cultural elements into local festivities.

City spokesperson Quinn Konold noted that each event is designed to introduce something fresh. For instance, last Fourth of July introduced a live rock band, while this year’s Merry Copa showcased a drone show.

In addition to the Copa Zoo, the market will feature an art zone, a children’s game area with bubble activities, and a beer garden for adults. Food enthusiasts can look forward to twelve food trucks and a wide selection of vendors selling their creations.

Main performances include Chilean folklore presented by Chilenos sin Fronteras from Phoenix, African diaspora performance by Tucson’s King-Doumbya Drumming and Dance, and Aztec dances from Coatlicue Danza Mexica. Other highlights are Polynesian fire performances by Hana Entertainment and Indigenous hoop dancer ShanDien Sonwai LaRance from Flagstaff.

While Copper Sky’s amenities, including the dog park, pickleball courts, and skate park, will remain operational, attendees wishing to use them will need to walk or pay for parking.

To facilitate access, complimentary shuttles will be provided from Maricopa Elementary, Maricopa Wells Middle School, and Maricopa High School, alongside an ADA-accessible shuttle service from City Hall.

Brooks encouraged community feedback, stating, “If there’s something you’d like to see in the future and have ideas, it’s always welcome.”