Olvera Street

Olvera Street is located on the general site of the birthplace of the city of Los Angeles, near the Plaza, the Plaza Church and the Zanja Madre. Originally called Vine Street, in 1877 it was renamed after Agustin Olvera, the first judge of the county of Los Angeles. Unfortunately, by the 1920’s the once robust community had become a dangerous and dilapidated area long abandoned by its prosperous founders.

So when Mrs. Christine Sterling, a wealthy young matron who loved history, found herself surrounded by original adobes and run down historic buildings, she began a crusade that would change her life and preserve the heritage of Los Angeles.

Along with several other wealthy citizens of Los Angeles, she founded the “Plaza de Los Angeles Corporation,” and became its lifelong manager. Mrs. Sterling opened Olvera Street to the general public in April 1930. Although there have been many developments in the last seventy years, her idea of a Mexican Marketplace still exists and continues to attract visitors from around the world.

 
 

Calendar of events:
Las Posadas
December 16th-24th

Ephiphany of the Three Kings
January 6th

Fiesta de la Candelaria
February 2nd

Mardi Gras
February 27th, 2006

Blessing of the Animals
March 26th, 2005

Cinco de Mayo
May 5th

American Independence Day
July 4th

Los Angeles Birthday Celebration
September 14th

Mexican Independence Day
September 16th

Dia de los Muertos
November 1st and 2nd

Rose Queen Reception
December

The Lighting Ceremony
December