'Queer Mercado’ brings local vendors, drag and more to Olvera Street

Queer Mercado started as a monthly pop-up event at the East L.A. Civic Center in the summer of 2021. Now, the community marketplace is launching a new residency at the historic Olvera Street plaza in downtown L.A.

The event will feature local queer-owned businesses, makeup tutorials, live artist paintings, drag performers and a fashion show.

Queer Mercado's founder, Diana Diaz, said the goal is to promote culture and inclusivity, and to empower marginalized communities in the area.

“ You're gonna see a lot of culture, fashion, a wide range of ages and genders, and performers that really reflect the landscape of LA,” she said.

Diaz is a handbag designer and high school counselor based out of East L.A. She’s been vending with her family since she was a young girl and started a community marketplace called the Goddess Mercado in 2021 to reconnect with friends and other local vendors after the pandemic. One of her students gave her the idea to create a similar space for the queer community.

“He told me, 'Miss, this is great that you're doing for the women of East L.A., but what about the queer community? I'm tired of going to the West Side. I don't fit in,'” she said.

Diaz has her own kiosk at Olvera Street and said foot traffic has been down in recent months, in part due to fears of immigration raids. But she said the event is a chance to create a more inclusive space and to reflect more of the diverse, cultural fabric that exists within Los Angeles.

“ It's full of history and love and positivity, and it gave birth to a lot of businesses and movements,” Diaz said. “And it's a site of celebrations and rituals and protests.”

Event details: Queer Mercado will be held 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Olvera Street every Saturday through at least June.

Secret menu: Stop by Juanita's Cafe, and ask for the “queer combo.” It’s not on the menu, but you’ll get a free drink.