The legendary hospitality of Old California comes to life at the Downey Symphony Garden Party on Sunday, Sept. 24, at the Rio Hondo Event Center.

You will enjoy the irresistible sound of a mariachi band alternating with the elegant beauty of a classical guitar; the aroma of delicious Mexican cuisine; and the cheerful sound of friends talking, laughing, and enjoying a favorite libation. There’ll also be the drama of a drawing as well as a live auction for exciting items.  

But there’s more than fun at this Gran Fiesta.  The money raised supports the crown jewel in Downey’s cultural heritage, the Downey Symphony Orchestra. The Symphony presents three concerts of great music in the Downey Theatre and a free concert in the Park each year.  

Our concert evenings are joyful experiences, with an exhibit of work by local artists, refreshments available, and a chance to meet our brilliant Music Director Sharon Lavery and Orchestra members after the concert.

Funds raised at the Garden Party support our outreach to Downey children. We provide full concerts at the Theatre fall and spring just for them and a quintet of musicians who visit schools and introduce children to the basics of music and also perform special pieces for their enjoyment.  Community support keeps this great Downey institution continuing and flourishing.

Downey is our Symphony family, and we warmly welcome you to our hacienda to celebrate our City’s rich and diverse culture.  Come dressed in bright, festive colors!  

Tickets are $75. The fiesta starts at 3 p.m. at the Rio Hondo Event Center. For information and tickets, call Pat Gil at (562) 879-3029.  

And don’t forget that tickets for our 59th season, opening Oct. 21, are now available from the Downey Theatre Box Office.  

Contributed by the Downey Symphony.