Chasco Fiesta 2024

Welcome to the 2024 Chasco Fiesta

Welcome to the 2024 Chasco Fiesta™! Chasco Fiesta™ provides the venue for over 25 nonprofit groups to generate muchneeded funds for the Pasco community. This year’s festivities will take place from March 15 through March 23. Over Chasco Fiesta’s™ nine-day festival, more than 200,000 visitors will come to Sims Park to enjoy the excitement. Festivities kick off with the Lighthouse Coronation Ball on March 15, when King Pithla and Queen Chasco are crowned. The king and queen are chosen every year from dozens of nominees, all dedicated volunteers in local charities and nonprofit groups. The Lighthouse Coronation Ball benefits the Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind. The following afternoon, March 16, features the amazing Flagship Bank Chasco Fiesta™ Boat Parade. The next Saturday, March 23, is the date of the Meares Plumbing Chasco Fiesta™ Street Parade, one of the largest in Florida. The street parade theme is “Long Live Rock and Roll,” and the

boat parade theme is “All About the Music.”

As always, there will be some amazing music in the park.

Starting the Festival off on March 15, The Marshall Tucker band will play with special guests The Georgia Thuderbolts.

Nearly 50 years ago, The Marshall Tucker Band was founded in Spartanburg, SC. Thanks to hits like Can’t You See, Heard It in a Love Song, Fire on the Mountain and 24 Hours At a Time, the 5x Gold, 3x Platinum-selling southern rock group has sold millions of albums worldwide.

Country Night will feature the awardwinning duo Maddie & Tae with special guest Wiley Fox.

Together as longtime friends and music

collaborators, Maddie Font and Taylor Kerr co-wrote each of the tracks on their new collection of songs, “Through the Madness Vol. 2,” out now.

Maddie & Tae first broke out in 2013 with their brilliant counter to bro-country, the platinumselling smash, “Girl in a Country Song,” which took country radio by storm, skyrocketing to the top of the charts and establishing them as only the third female duo in 70 years to top the country airplay charts.

There will be a different genre of music every night during Chasco, ranging from Christian to Latin to Blues Masters. You may want to be there every night! Please refer to the festival calendar for more exciting concerts. Other events include the popular car,

truck and bike show, art show and the Native American Festival. The Chasco Fiesta™ Native American Festival provides authentic Native American dancing and educational programs. Entertainment is throughout the nine days of Chasco. This year, the program includes World Champion Hoop Dancing, a Native American Music Award-winning singersongwriter and many other demonstrations and cultural dancing from different tribal backgrounds.

Visit www. ChascoFiesta. com for event information.

So, are you ready to put the “fun” in fundraiser?

Welcome to the 2024 Chasco Fiesta™!

Cami Austin Chairman, 2024 Chasco FiestaTM

Welcome from the City of New Port Richey

On behalf of the city council, city staff and our residents and businesses, I would like to personally welcome you to New Port Richey. We are excited that you are joining us for our signature event.

The Annual Chasco FiestaTM provides a venue for 25 not-forprofit organizations to raise funds for their groups and has a unique way to give back to itself through its support of the various organizations that are represented.

This year’s Chasco Fiesta™ promises to be the best one yet, with the awesome 2024 Meares Plumbing Chasco FiestaTM Street Parade on March 23, the 2024 Flagship Bank Chasco Fiesta™ Boat Parade on March 16, and more music than you can possibly imagine the whole week. For a complete list of all the great Chasco Fiesta™ events, visit www.ChascoFiesta.com.

The music this year will include performances from The Marshall Tucker Band with The Georgia Thunderbolts, Maddie & Tae with Wiley Fox, Signs of Life – a Pink Floyd tribute band, Jeremy Rosado, The Latin Brothers, The Black Honkeys, The American Stones, Julie Black, Damon Fowler, Peyton Monarch, Brother Brownlow, Pieces of Eight, Symmetry, Jam Jones, Black Horse Cavalry, Seph Schlueter and Renee during nine days of

entertainment. I guarantee you will find music you will like during one or more of the nightly performances.

I would like to personally thank all the Chasco Fiesta™ sponsors and the thousands of volunteers who help make the Chasco Fiesta™ possible each year. Your efforts this year will make Sims Park the place to be every night from March 15 through March 23.

I would also like to thank our residents and business owners who come out and support this great community event. You are an important part of the success of the Chasco Fiesta™ each year.

I look forward to seeing you at some of the many upcoming Chasco Fiesta™ events over the next nine fun-filled days.

Sincerely,

Chopper Davis, Mayor

City of New Port Richey

WHEREAS, Chasco Fiesta was founded in 1922 and is the oldest annual

festival in Florida; and WHEREAS, theChascoFiestapayshomagetotheNativeAmericanIndians; and WHEREAS, 2024 marks the 102nd anniversaryof thefirstChascoFiesta; and WHEREAS,the Chasco Fiesta is afundraising event thatsupports over 20

successful.

local and surrounding area organizations; and WHEREAS, the Chasco Fiesta’s boat and streetparades, car show, concerts,

Port Richey, do hereby congratulate the

and food are enjoyed by all; and WHEREAS, the sponsors and more than 700 volunteers make this event

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Chopper Davis, Mayor of the City of New

Chasco Fiesta

on their 102ndanniversary in beautiful Downtown New Port Richey and

I encourage all residents to visit one of our city’s greatest events.

See the New King Pithla and Queen Chasco Crowned at the 2024 Coronation Ball

Enjoy an evening of black tie elegance at the 37th Annual Chasco FiestaTM Coronation Ball on Friday, March 15, at Spartan Manor in New Port Richey.

Each year, the formal gala kicks off the festival with a full evening of food, entertainment and fun. A cocktail hour starts the soiree at 6 p.m. with dinner served at 7 p.m. The Ball, which is presented this year by the Musunuru family, lasts well into the night with live music, dancing and a charity auction. This year’s ball is going to be very glamorous.

Of course, the swanky event is about so much more than just dressing up and having a good time. It’s a way to say thank

you to the outgoing King Pithla and Queen Chasco – Steve Luikart and Julie Rogers – and to crown this year’s new royal couple, who are selected based on their dedication to the community.

“The purpose of the ball is first and foremost to celebrate those in our community who make such a large impact – either by leadership or years of service. It’s also to highlight the nonprofit organizations in our community,” said Jamie Mick, Coronation Ball chairperson and a former Queen Chasco herself.

During the ball, judges choose a new King Pithla and Queen Chasco from dozens of outstanding nominees who’ve been

submitted by their various community groups and not-for-profit organizations in

2023 Chasco Coronation Ball

recognition of their volunteerism and hard work.

Proceeds from the Coronation Ball benefit the Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind’s Early Intervention Program for Blind Babies, which provides services and training to visually impaired and blind babies, children and their parents.

Tickets to the 37th annual Chasco Coronation Ball are $125 per person. To purchase, contact Chairperson Jamie Mick at (727) 642-8041 or chascoballticket@ gmail.com. Or, go online at lvib.org/ball.

Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For more information, call (727) 642-8041 or email chascoballsponsorships@gmail.com.

Queen Chasco, Julie Rogers and King Pithla, Steve Luikart

Ruth Eckerd Hall on the Road presents The Marshall Tucker Band

Chasco FiestaTM is proud to partner with Ruth Eckerd Hall on the Road to present The Marshall Tucker Band with special guest The Georgia Thunderbolts on the festival’s sizzling night of music on Friday, March 15, in Sims Park.

In 1972, original members Toy Caldwell, Tommy Caldwell, Doug Gray, Jerry Eubanks, George McCorkle and Paul Riddle came together in Spartanburg, S.C. to form a southern rock band. They knew they had the magic for something that could reach people well beyond South Carolina. They had the sound, the look, and the camaraderie. Problem was, they didn’t have a name. One day while rehearsing in a local warehouse, they came across a key ring with the inscription, “Marshall Tucker.” It belonged to a blind piano tuner. It was this fated discovery that inspired the band’s moniker, and in that moment, The Marshall Tucker Band was born.

Nearly 50 years ago, The Marshall Tucker

Band was founded in Spartanburg, SC. Thanks to hits like Can’t You See, Heard It in a Love Song, Fire on the Mountain and 24 Hours At a Time, the 5x Gold, 3x Platinum-selling southern rock group has sold millions of albums worldwide. MTB songs have been featured in major motion picture films and television shows including Breaking Bad, Blow, The Box, Swing Vote, Half Nelson, My Name Is Earl, Cold Case Files and Good Guys. CMT (Country Music Television) named the MTB’s Can’t You See, the #4 Greatest Southern Rock Song. The MTB’s debut album, The

Marshall Tucker Band, reigns as Gibson Guitar’s #5 Greatest Southern Rock Album. Ultimate Classic Rock crowned the MTB’s Can’t You See as the #1 Southern Rock Song and GRAMMY®

Magazine named the group’s logo as one of the most distinctive and iconic brands in music. Whether it be on the banks of the Mississippi River or deep in the heart of the English countryside, rock ‘n’ roll lives, breathes, and burns on the outskirts. Hailing from Rome, GA at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, The Georgia Thunderbolts rise up with a scorching

signature style steeped in soulful southern swagger, blistering blues, and raw rock. Released October of 2021, the quintet’s full-length debut for Mascot Records Can We Get A Witness conjures a tried-and-true spirit through a fresh fire. With a wide swath of inspirations, ranging from southern gospel and Hank Williams to Neil Young, Little Feat, Ozzy Osbourne and Lynyryd Skynyrd, the band cut their teeth performing with everyone from Black Stone Cherry and The Kentucky Headhunters to Blackberry Smoke.

Gates open at 5:00 p.m. and the concert starts at 7 p.m. VIP tickets are $79 and include a premium seat and two beers. Reserved seats are $55, $45 and $25. General admission tickets are $20. Tickets are available at Ruth Eckerd Hall, by calling 727.791.7400 or visiting RuthEckerdHall.com. Tickets will also be available day-of-show at the ticket office at Sims Park. No coolers, golf carts or chairs allowed. The show will go on, rain or shine.

Hits 106: A Tribute to Rock Night features Signs of Life, a Pink Floyd tribute band

Chasco Fiesta’sTM Hits 106: A Tribute to Rock Night will take place on Saturday, March 23 at the Sims Park Amphitheater with bands playing from 4-10 p.m. The headliner is Signs of Life, a Pink Floyd tribute band.

Hailing from Cincinnati, Signs of Life: The American Pink Floyd faithfully captures the music, emotion and excitement of a Pink Floyd concert. Signs of Life’s shows feature authentic music, sound effects, lighting and video to recreate the essence of Pink Floyd. Set lists encompass hits and rarities spanning every Floyd album, played live with remarkable reverence and power.

The group features eight incredible musicians and a top-notch production team dedicated to reproducing the vast and spacious Pink Floyd sound. Band members include Jon Stankorb, lead vocals, lead guitar, lap steel guitar; Tom Bartel, keyboards, vocals, SPFX; John Hoerr, bass, vocals; Tony Sager, drums, percussion;

Dan Barger, saxophones, EWI, percussion; Rich Biondo, acoustic/electric guitar; Reyna Spears, vocals; and Julie Martin Bernard, vocals.

Cincinnati Magazine declared Signs Of Life “Best Tribute Band.”

Concertgoers will be treated to a mesmerizing performance and will never see the same show twice. Signs of Life takes the stage at 8 p.m.

Playing from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Jam Jones is a fun, diverse

jam band that plays everything from energetic funk and rock to heart-twisting and touching love songs to high energy dance music. This band has no limits. Jam Jones band members include “American Idol” finalist

Curtis Gray on keys and vocals; Luis Antonio Alicea from the Al Di Meola Band on drums; Adam Landry on bass and vocals; Sam Clyatt on guitar and vocals; and Paul Cazares on guitar.

First up on Saturday and playing from 4 to 5:30 p.m. is Black Horse Cavalry.

A Tampa Bay area rock band, Black Horse Cavalry covers a variety of great rock music and have an amazing sound of their own.

Black Horse Cavalry band members include Pete Zollo on drums; Scott Finelli and Jeff Grey on guitar; Chuck Grey on bass; and Tim Clark on vocals. Black Horse Cavalry is sure to put on a sensational show.

Gate entry fee for A Tribute to Rock Night is $5. Seating is provided. No coolers or golf carts allowed. No backpacks or purses. The show will go on, rain or shine.

Signs of Life: A Pink Floyd tribute band and light show

Chasco Fiesta Country Night features

Maddie & Tae with Wiley Fox

Chasco FiestaTM is proud to welcome Maddie & Tae with special guest Wiley Fox for this year’s country concert, presented by the Kemp, Ruge & Green Law Group, on Saturday, March 16 in Sims Park.

Award-winning duo Maddie & Tae channel their unbreakable bond, honest songwriting and “some of the tightest harmonies on Music Row” (Rolling Stone) into their new collection of songs, “Through the Madness Vol. 2,” out now. Together as longtime friends and music collaborators, Maddie Font and Taylor Kerr co-wrote each of the project’s tracks, as well as all eight songs on “Through the Madness Vol. 1.” The pair drew praise for their gold-certified “The Way It Feels” album, including the double platinum-certified No. 1 hit, “Die From a Broken Heart.” With “Die From a Broken Heart” topping the country airplay charts, Maddie & Tae became the first and only female twosome with multiple No. 1s.

Maddie & Tae first broke out in 2013 with their brilliant counter to bro-country, the platinumselling smash, “Girl in a Country Song,” which took country radio by storm, skyrocketing to the top of the charts and establishing them as only the third female duo in 70 years to top the country airplay charts. They recently took home Group/Duo Video of the Year (“Woman You Got”) at the CMT Music Awards and were nominated an eighth time for Vocal Duo of the Year at the 56th CMA Awards. They have earned trophies from the Radio Disney Music Awards and

CMA Awards, along with multiple ACM, Billboard and CMT Award nominations. Maddie & Tae have received widespread praise from The Associated Press, Billboard, Entertainment Weekly, NPR, The Tennessean, The Washington Post, Glamour and others. The celebrated duo has toured with country music’s hottest stars, including Carrie Underwood, Dierks Bentley and Brad Paisley.

For the last decade, Wiley Fox has been building quite a large fan base in the area. They have played at numerous fairs and festivals around Tampa Bay and beyond. A few of their credits include the Main Street Blast, Dallas Bull, Hudson Seafest and opening for Willie Nelson at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Wiley Fox’s five talented band members include Jesse Embry, lead vocals and rhythm guitar; Brandon Embry, lead guitar and vocals; Rick Stoots, bass guitar and vocals; Terry Ettel, drums; and Tom O’Neal, steel guitar, lead guitar and vocals.

Gates for the country concert open at 6 p.m. with the music starting at 7 p.m. Reserved seats for the Maddie & Tae concert with special guest Wiley Fox are priced at $30 and $50. General admission tickets are priced at $20. Tickets are available at Ruth Eckerd Hall by calling 727.791.7400 or visiting RuthEckerdHall.com. Tickets will also be available day-of-show at the ticket office at Sims Park.

Seating is provided. No coolers, golf carts or chairs allowed. The show will go on, rain or shine.

Maddie & Tae will perform with special guest Wiley Fox on Saturday, March 16 in Sims Park at the Chasco Fiesta.

What’s Happening at the 2024 Chasco Fiesta

Live Entertainment

Shows

Friday, March 15 – Ticketed Event

1 PM-10 PM – West Pasco Sertoma Beef BBQ

5 PM-11 PM – Native American Festival, PFAC Art Show, Beer Trucks and Food Vendors

6 PM – Coronation Ball @ Spartan Manor

7 PM-10 PM – Ruth Eckerd Hall On The Road presents Rock Night

7 PM-10 PM – The Marshall Tucker Band with The Georgia Thunderbolts

Saturday, March 16 – Ticketed Event after 4 PM

8 AM – Special Olympics 5K

8:15 AM – 1-Mile Family Walk

9 AM-12 PM – Dragon Boat Races

10 AM-9 PM – Kids Zone

10 AM-10 PM – Native American Festival and Food Vendors

11 AM-10 PM – West Pasco Sertoma Beef BBQ, PFAC Art Show

1 PM – Flagship Bank Boat Parade Begins

1 PM-10 PM – Beer Trucks Open

7 PM-10 PM – Entertainment in the Park, Country Night

7 PM-10 PM – Maddie & Tae with Special Guest Wiley Fox

Sunday, March 17

Gate Entry Fee $5 (Children 12 and under free)

8 AM-3 PM – Car, Truck and Bike Show

11 AM-10 PM – Native American Festival

Noon-4 PM – West Pasco Sertoma Beef BBQ

Noon-9 PM – Kids Zone

1 PM-10 PM – Beer Trucks and Food Vendors

1 PM-9 PM – Entertainment in the Park, Bay Area Showcase

1 PM-2:30 PM – Brother Brownlow Band

3 PM-4:30 PM – Pieces of Eight

5 PM-6:30 PM – Symmetry

7 PM-9 PM – The American Stones, a Rolling Stones tribute band

Monday, March 18 – FREE • NO ENTRY FEE

5 PM-9 PM – Kids Zone

5 PM-10 PM – Native American Festival, Beer Trucks and Food Vendors

4 PM-10 PM – Native American Night

5 PM – The River Spirit Play: The History of New Port Richey as told by the River

6 PM – Lowery Begay

7 PM – CreeAtive Presents: Turtle Island

8 PM – Keith Secola

$5 park entry all nights except Free Day – Monday, March 18 and Ticketed Events (March 15 &16)

Chasco Fiesta has something for everyone to enjoy, from a Native American Pow Wow to the longest-running boat parade in Florida. Make sure to explore our website for a complete list of events.

Brother Brownlow Band

Pieces of Eight

Symmetry

Tuesday, March 19

Gate Entry Fee $5 (Children 12 and under free)

5 PM-9 PM – Kids Zone

5 PM-10 PM – Native American Festival, Beer Trucks and Food Vendors

5:30 PM – Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce’s YPG Bowling Tournament

6 PM-10 PM – Happy Hour with the Black Honkeys

6:15 PM-7:15 PM – Peyton-Monarch Band

7:45 PM-9:15 PM – The Black Honkeys

Wednesday, March 20

Gate Entry Fee $5 (Children 12 and under free)

5 PM-9 PM – Kids Zone

5 PM-10 PM – Native American Festival, Beer Trucks and Food Vendors

7 PM-9:30 PM – Entertainment in the Park, Latin Night

7 PM-7:30 PM – DJ

8 PM-9:30 PM – The Latin Brothers

Thursday, March 21

Gate Entry Fee $5 (Children 12 and under free)

Noon – Registration starts, Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament

1 PM – Shotgun start at Seven Springs Golf and Country Club, contact Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce for details, call 727-842-7651

1 PM-10 PM – West Pasco Sertoma Chicken BBQ

5 PM-9 PM – Kids Zone

5 PM-10 PM – Native American Festival, Beer Trucks and Food Vendors

6 PM-10 PM – Entertainment in the Park, Rhythm and Blues Masters

6:30 PM-8 PM – Julie Black Band

8:30 PM-10 PM – Damon Fowler

Friday, March 22

Gate Entry Fee $5 (Children 12 and under free)

Noon-7 PM – Pasco Hernando State College presents Chasco Fiesta Education Expo, Guest Speakers and Information

1 PM-10 PM – West Pasco Sertoma Chicken BBQ

4 PM-10 PM – Native American Festival

5 PM-9 PM – Kids Zone

5 PM-10 PM – Beer Trucks

6 PM-9PM – Entertainment in the Park, Joy FM Family Night

6 PM-7 PM – Seph Schlueter as support and RENEE

7 PM-9 PM – Jeremy Rosado

Saturday, March 23

Gate Entry Fee $5 (Children 12 and under free)

10 AM-9 PM – Kids Zone

10 AM-6 PM – Pasco Hernando State College presents Chasco Fiesta Education Expo, Demonstration Day

10 AM-10 PM – Native American Festival and Food Vendors

11 AM-10 PM – West Pasco Sertoma Chicken BBQ

1 PM-10 PM – Beer Trucks

Noon-3PM – Meares Plumbing & Electric Street Parade Begins

4 PM-10 PM – Entertainment in the Park, Tribute to Rock

4 PM-5:30 PM – Black Horse Cavalry

6 PM-7:30 PM – Jam Jones

8 PM-10 PM – Signs of Life: A Pink Floyd tribute band and light show

$5 park entry all nights except Free Day – Monday, March 18 and Ticketed Events (March 15 &16)

Jeremy Rosado

Signs of Life – A Pink Floyd tribute band and light show

Peyton-Monarch Band

Black Honkeys

Black Horse Cavalry

Jam Jones

Julie Black

Damon Fowler

Jeremy Rosado headlines at The Joy FM Family Night

Contemporary Christian music fans can hear some of the genre’s finest at Chasco Fiesta’sTM The Joy FM Family Music Night, presented by radio station Joy FM 91.5, on Friday, March 22 in Sims Park.

Headlining this year’s free event is “The Voice” and Capitol Records recording artist Jeremy Rosado.

Rosado is a Christian pop artist who has appeared on both “American Idol” and “The Voice.” His first single, “Don’t Be Afraid,” was released in 2013. His first album, “Heartbeat,” was released in 2015.

his niece. He spent the next seven years solely focused on being a dad, but now that his daughter is 18, Rosado is ready to get back to music. He will take the stage at 7 p.m.

Today’s Christian Entertainment named Rosado one of the Top 12 artists to watch for 2024. His song “Come and See” made it to the Top 30 Billboard for Christian airplay in December 2023. His newest single, “Still God,” was released March 8.

Rosado, who hails from Valrico, grew up in a large Puerto Rican family in Queens, New York, and got his start singing at neighborhood block parties. At 10 years old, his family moved to Florida and he began participating in choir at church and school. He later became a worship leader and started gaining traction in the local music scene. At 21, he got the opportunity to open for Andrea Bocelli in Germany and finally felt his career taking off. However, later that year, Rosado decided to take over guardianship of

Opening for Rosado are Seph Schlueter and Renee. Schlueter is an emerging artist whose life was transformed by Jesus and who wants to help others experience the same. Having spent the last seven years of his life as a missionary, Schlueter is passionate about writing songs that move people and creating opportunities for people to encounter God. Schlueter has released three songs that have garnered nearly 2.5 million streams combined, opened for Grammy Award-winning artists, and been featured on multiple national news platforms. His debut single, “Counting My My Blessings,” released in July 2023.

Renee is a contemporary Christian duo made up of sisters Rachael Renee Peyton and Riley Renee Peyton. Their newest single “Nothing but Jesus” was released in February 2024. They had three previous singles - “I Want Out,” “No Limit” and “Wonderful.”

The Joy FM Family Music Night is from 6 to 10 p.m. Seating is provided. No coolers allowed. There is a $5 gate entry fee.

Jeremy Rosado

Seph Schlueter

Renee

Native American Festival Honors Native Cultures

Chasco FiestaTM began in 1922 as a fun way for New Port Richey residents to raise money for a community library. The festival took inspiration from the area’s indigenous people, who named the beautiful Pithlachascotee River and made this land their home.

A century later, Chasco FiestaTM continues to honor Native Americans with its popular Native American Festival, which takes place each day in Sims Park.

Every year, Native American tribes from all over the country gather to delight festivalgoers with their traditional costumes, crafts, music and fire dancing. They also share exhibits and perform thrilling demonstrations

Schedule for Native American Festival

Friday, March 15

5 p.m. – Lowery Begay Flute & Stories

6 p.m. – Kalani Poepoe indigenous music from Pacific islands

7 p.m. – Aztec Fire Dancers

8 p.m. – CreeAtive Native American Dancers

Saturday & Sunday, March 16-17

11 a.m. – Kalani Poepoe indigenous music from Pacific islands

12 p.m. – Aztec Fire Dancers

1 p.m. – Parade Intermission

2 p.m. – CreeAtive Native American Dancers

3 p.m. – Lowery Begay Flute & Stories

4 p.m. – Kalani Poepoe indigenous music from Pacific islands

5 p.m. – Aztec Fire Dancers

6 p.m. – Lowery Begay Flute & Stories

7:30 p.m. CreeAtive Native American Dancers

Monday, March 18 is Native American Night. See page 20.

Tuesday-Friday, March 19-22

5 p.m. – Kalani Poepoe indigenous music from Pacific islands

6 p.m. – Lowery Begay Flute & Stories

7 p.m. – Aztec Fire Dancers

8 p.m. – CreeAtive Native American Dancers

Saturday, March 23

11 a.m. – Kalani Poepoe indigenous music from Pacific islands

12 p.m. – Aztec Fire Dancers

1 p.m. – Intermission

2 p.m. – CreeAtive

Native American Dancers

3 p.m. – Lowery Begay Flute & Stories

4 p.m. – Kalani Poepoe indigenous music from Pacific islands

5 p.m. – Aztec Fire Dancers

6 p.m. – Lowery Begay Flute & Stories

7:30 p.m. CreeAtive Native American Dancers

that teach Native American culture and history.

See beautifully ornate headdresses, beaded jewelry, handcrafted moccasins and other authentic artifacts. Festivalgoers can also

purchase eyecatching arts and crafts, as well as other merchandise,

from Native American vendors from all over the country.

Check ChascoFiesta.com for showtimes each day.

Aztec Fire Dancers

Have Fun at the 2024 Meares Plumbing & Electric Chasco Fiesta Street Parade

Who doesn’t love a parade?

The Chasco FiestaTM Street Parade is one of the most popular events in Pasco County. More than 100,000 spectators turn out for the event annually, making it one of the largest street parades in Florida.

This year’s parade, hosted by the Rotary Club of Holiday and sponsored by Meares Plumbing, kicks off at 12 p.m. on Saturday, March 23. The parade starts on Grand Boulevard, moves around Orange Lake on Circle Boulevard and then finishes on Main Street near U.S. 19.

“As always, we look forward to the parade guests and having a

huge turnout,” said Parade Chair Angel Cook.

To celebrate the 102nd anniversary of the Chasco FiestaTM,

the theme of the 2023 Meares Plumbing Chasco FiestaTM Street Parade is “Long Live Rock and Roll.” The parade will feature

more than 100 exciting units, with the newly crowned 2024 King Pithla and Queen Chasco waving to fans from atop their royal float. The Gulf Side Corvette Club will drive the parade route in their vintage hot rods.

In keeping with the community spirit, several marching bands from Pasco County high schools

and middle schools will get everyone’s feet tapping, and local police officers and fire and rescue agents will also join the fun.

Paradegoers can also expect to see dancing groups, twirlers, clowns and Gasparilla pirate krewes from all around the Tampa Bay area.

The Latin Brothers headline on Latin Night

Join us for a sizzling evening of Latin rhythms and vibrant culture at La Noche Latina or Latin Night, during the Chasco Fiesta!

On Wednesday, March 20th, immerse yourself in passionate beats and melodies and hit the dance floor from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM at the Sims Park Amphitheater.

Kick off the festivities with a DJ spinning lively tunes from 7:00 to 7:30 PM, setting the stage for an unforgettable night. Then, from 8:00 to 9:30 PM, experience the sensational sounds of Los Hermanos Latinos – The Latin Brothers – as they take the stage, delivering an electrifying performance that will have you dancing the night away.

salsa group originally led by Julio Ernesto Estrada Rincón, known as ‘Fruko’. Fruko’s son and protégé Julio Ernesto Estrada López Jr. would later become the Musical Director for the re-launch of the group after the untimely death of original lead singer Piper Pimienta.

Among their most famous songs is “Las Caleñas son como las flores,” which has become an anthem of sorts for the city of Cali, Colombia. The song was featured on the soundtrack of the video game Scarface: The World Is Yours.

Don’t miss this exhilarating celebration of Latin music and dance at Chasco Fiesta.

The Latin Brothers is a Colombian

For more information, visit chascofiesta.com.

The Flagship Bank Chasco Fiesta Boat Parade

Chasco Fiesta’sTM boat parade is a legendary event in the community.

As the oldest boat parade in Florida, it has attracted generations of fans who thrill at the sight of dozens of festively decorated boats traveling down the Pithlachascotee “Cotee” River.

The 2024 Chasco FiestaTM Boat Parade, presented by Flagship Bank and hosted by the Rotary Club of New Port Richey, kicks off at Millers Bayou at 1 p.m., Saturday, March 16, and sails all the way to Sims Park. This year the parade welcomes the country duo Maddie & Tae as its grand marshals.

Every year, the parade celebrates with a specific theme in mind. This year’s theme? “All About the Music,” said Amanda Hart, club president for the Rotary Club of New Port Richey. Expect to see plenty of folks dressed in creative costumes on every boat.

You’ll find great views of the parade all along the river. One popular spot is the Main Street bridge, where folks can get a full view of the boats as they turn under the bridge toward Sims Park.

While it’s great fun watching the excitement on the river, it’s important to keep in mind that just like all of Chasco Fiesta’sTM fabulous events, the festival’s boat parade is a fundraiser. Each year, boat captains are challenged to organize teams in one of three categories – local business/profit, nonprofit/ school or individual/family – to compete for cash prizes.

This year’s prizes include a whopping $2,000 grand prize award to the best overall boat as well as three $1000 first prize awards, three $750 second prize awards and three $500 third prize awards.

Onlookers can also expect to salute the newly crowned 2024 King Pithla and Queen Chasco, who will wave to fans from one the parade’s boats. The festival’s King and Queen are chosen from dozens of nominees, all dedicated volunteers from community groups and not-for-profit organizations.

Best Overall Boat: $2,000 Grand Prize

Three (3) First Prize Awards: $1000

Three (3) Second Prize Awards: $750

Three (3) Third Prize Awards: $500

So, get ready for a day of nautical fun that’s good for the community!

Registration forms for the Chasco FiestaTM Boat Parade are available online at ChascoFiesta.com. For more information, call (727) 859-6540 or email amanda@ blackjackmg.com.

Boat Parade

Saturday, March 16

Grand Marshals – country duo Maddie & Tae

Chasco FiestaTM Boat Parade Route

See Classic Cars and More at the Car, Truck and Bike Show

If you love vintage Chevys and souped-up hot rods, don’t miss the Chasco FiestaTM Car, Truck and Bike Show in downtown New Port Richey on Sunday, March 17. It’s the biggest annual car show in Pasco County.

Hosted by the Gulf Side Corvette Club for the 25th year, the show, which takes place from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Grand Blvd., features more than 350 vehicles – everything from muscle cars, vintage fire engines and antique motorcycles to today’s most tricked-out trucks.

The fundraising event is sponsored by a team of nine businesses:

AETNA, Nature Coast Auto Glass, Wheel Craft, AIM Family Chiropractic, Feola’s Service Center in Hudson, Ford of Port Richey, Creative Curbing & Moore, Yeti Construction and NAPA Auto Parts.

The popular car show features live music, door prizes and raffle drawings. Every year it raises thousands of dollars for local charities, says co-organizer

Patrick Martucci. This year’s show has earmarked $5,000 to give to worthy groups.

Beneficiaries in 2024 will be Guardian Ad Litem, families of domestic violence, Pasco Kids First, Ian’s Way, Baldomero Lopez State Veterans’ Nursing Home, the Stand Down Project, Kiddy Up Ranch, two scholarships to Marchman Tech., Christmas Angel Tree and The Angelus. Another beneficiary is the veterans charity, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. The Chasco Fiesta will dedicate this year’s show to them with the 50/50 proceeds going directly to them. They will have the “Krewe of Forti” float and T2T representatives.

The show’s organizers will distribute 151 trophies in various categories, including a 5-foot trophy for Best of Show and 60 trophies in specialty categories like “Participants’ Choice,” “Best of Show Automobile” and “Best of Show Motorcycle.” For more information, contact Patrick Martucci at 727-236-0959.

Native American Song and Dance Featured on Native American Night

Native American song and dance will top the list of entertainment at Chasco Fiesta’sTM Native American Night on Monday, March 18 from 4-10 p.m. in Sims Park.

At 5 p.m., Chasco Fiesta attendees will be treated to The River Spirit Play: The History of New Port Richey as told by the River.

After The River Spirit Play, Lowery Begay will perform flute music and stories at 6 p.m. Begay has been dancing, storytelling and playing the Native flute professionally for more than 15 years. Begay is from the Dine’ (Navajo) Nations and was raised on the Navajo reservation in New Mexico and Arizona. He grew up learning the traditional Navajo ways from his grandparents. Begay has been dancing as a hoop dancer and

northern-style fancy dancer for most of his life.

Begay competes at the World Hoop Dance contest every year, and is currently ranked second in the world as a hoop dancer. He is the 2004 Schemitzun Hoop Dance Champion.

In 2005, Begay was part of a major production as a hoop and fancy dancer called “Spirit: The Seventh Fire.”

Begay has had the opportunity to share his gift around the world traveling and performing in Japan, Norway, Switzerland, Iceland, Belgium, Germany, Italy, England and at

Otter Oliver of CreeAtive Native American Dancers

the grand opening of the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C.

Native American Night Schedule

Monday, March 18

At 7 p.m the CreeAtive Native American dancers and educators will perform Turtle Island, representing the Cree and Dakota tribes.

At 8 p.m. Keith Secola will perform. Winner of seven Native American Music Awards, Secola is a composer, singer-songwriter and entertainer in the Native Americana genre, which merges roots music with a Native soul, weaving folk, rock and world beats with poignant and occasionally witty lyrics. In 2011, he was inducted into the Native American Music Awards Hall of Fame.

Entry is free on Native American Night. Check ChascoFiesta.com for daily showtimes.

Monday is Native American Night. Performances will be on stage starting at 5 p.m.

5 PM – The River Spirit Play: The History of New Port Richey as told by the River

6 PM – Lowery Begay

7 PM – CreeAtive Presents: Turtle Island

8 PM – Keith Secola

Lowery Begay plays a Native American flute.

Keith Secola

Celebrate Chasco Fiesta’s 1st Annual Dragon Boat Races

The Chasco Fiesta will host its 1st Annual Dragon Boat races on Saturday, March 16 on the Pithlachascotee River. Boats will launch from the Sims Park boat ramp in downtown New Port Richey at 9:00 am.

on race day here in our quaint little Gulf Coast town. The Chasco Fiesta is a weeklong riverfront event featuring a boat parade, oodles of entertainment, and now its very own dragon boat festival.

This dragon boat format will be a knockout style competition in 10-paddler boats with teams racing 250m in 2 lanes on the canal in downtown New Port Richey.

Corporate Festival Mixed.

Entry fees for a 10 paddler team are $975-Corporate, $900-Community/Non-profit and $800-Club/Visiting Team.

For more information, visit https://www. panamdragonboat. com/races/2024-chasco-fiesta or ChascoFiesta.com

The race will include community and corporate teams that will race for fun and as a fundraiser for Chasco Fiesta. Sport racing or club teams that train regularly and participate in multiple events in a season may also race.

The racing classes include Club Mixed, Club Open, Club Women, Community Festival Mixed and

The race is organized and boats will be provided by Pan Am Dragon Boats, which was founded in 2010 by longtime serial dragon boat entrepreneur, Mike Kerkmann.

It’s time to get excited for the Chasco Fiesta Dragon Boat Races! Come and celebrate all the food, fun and entertainment that is happening

Chasco

on Saturday, March 16 on the Pithlachascotee River at 9:00 am.

The

Fiesta’s 1st Annual Dragon Boat races will take place

Compete in one of Chasco Fiesta’s many Charity Sports Events

Golf Tournament

Thursday, March 21

Sports lovers, you’ve got plenty of opportunities to have fun while competing in a variety of tournaments and races at Chasco FiestaTM. In addition to the popular Special Olympics 5K and Fun Run, the festival also hosts the following charity sports events.

Bowling Tournament

The Chasco FiestaTM Bowling Social, sponsored by the Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce, takes place Tuesday, March 19, at Lane Glo Bowl South in New Port Richey. Registration opens at 5:30 p.m. with bowling starting at 6:30 p.m. Teams of four can register for $180. There

is a theme contest where many bowlers will dress as their team theme. Your score is not as important as the fun you will have with friends and co-workers. The event sells out every year, so register early. For more information and to register, visit GreaterPasco.com.

Golf Tournament Golfers, show off your swing at the Chasco FiestaTM Golf Tournament, sponsored by the Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce. The tournament will be held Thursday,

Springs Golf and Country Club in New Port Richey. Registration opens at NOON, and the tournament begins with a 1 p.m. Shotgun Scramble. Teams pay a fee of $550 and the package includes greens fees, range balls and carts for four players as well as a goodie bag, dinner and your name on the Hole-InOne Sponsor sign. Proper golf attire is required. For more information and to register, visit GreaterPasco. com. The golf tournament is sponsored by

Bowling Tournament

Tuesday, March 19

Race for Inclusion in the Special Olympics 5K Fun Run and walk

On your mark, get set, go! Runners, get ready to compete in one of Chasco Fiesta’sTM most beloved charity sports events, the10th Annual Special Olympics Race for Inclusion 5K fun run and 1-mile walk.

Sports lovers of all ages and abilities are invited to participate in the Special Olympics 5K Fun Run on Saturday, March 16. The event, which also features a 1-mile walk option, is a fundraiser for Special Olympics Florida Pasco County, a non-profit sports program for people with

intellectual disabilities. Each year the race attracts as many as 500 participants. Awards for top male and female finishers will be given in the 5K’s several categories. All participants will receive a finisher medal, goodie bag and event T-shirt.

The Special Olympics 5K Fun Run starts at 8 a.m. at the New

Port Richey Recreation and Aquatic Center. The 1-mile walk starts at 8:15 a.m. Registration for the 5K is $35-$40, and registration for the 1-mile walk is $10. Preregister at ChascoFiesta.com.

5K Fun Run and 1-Mile Walk

Saturday, March 16