The Historic Social Clubs Celebration
of Ybor City’s Rich Culture and Legacy
Enjoy Cultural Food, Conversation, Games, Shared History, and more
14 December 2025 | 3pm – 6pm
CENTRO ASTURIANO | 1913 N. NEBRASKA AVE. TAMPA, FL 33602
Five Historic Mutual Aid Societies Unite to Celebrate 140 Years of Ybor City Heritage
For the first time in history, all five of Ybor City’s original mutual aid societies will come together to honor their shared legacy of culture and community. The event, a Piquiniqui, will celebrate 140 years of Ybor City and the enduring legacy of community built together, will take place on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at the Centro Asturiano de Tampa.
This landmark celebration will bring together Centro Asturiano de Tampa, Centro Español de Tampa, Circulo Cubano (Cuban Club), Sociedad La Unión Martí-Maceo, and L’Unione Italiana (Italian Club)—organizations that collectively helped shape the foundation of Ybor City and Tampa’s unique multicultural identity.
The event marks the 140th anniversary of Ybor City’s founding in 1885, when immigrants arrived to work in the cigar industry that transformed Tampa into a thriving community. In an era before public healthcare or welfare systems, these immigrant workers established mutual aid societies that offered medical care, education, cultural programming, and a sense of belonging. Each society built its own clubhouse, hospital, and theatre—creating the heart of social and cultural life for generations of families.
“Ybor City was built by people who believed in the strength of community,” said Cristal Lastra, President of the Centro Asturiano de Tampa. “This event celebrates that legacy—not just of the clubs themselves, but of every family whose story began in these walls.”
Patrick Manteiga, Vice Chair of the Cuban Club, added, “The event is a great opportunity to celebrate our shared history and heritage.”
The Piquiniqui will feature food, music, games, and community—just as a Piquiniqui was always meant to be celebrated. Families and friends from across Tampa Bay are invited to come together to honor the traditions that have connected generations of Ybor City’s residents.
Each club will share its unique traditions and stories while celebrating together in unity—reflecting the enduring spirit of cooperation that made Ybor City a model for cultural preservation and civic pride.
Today, these institutions remain active pillars of the community, preserving the architecture, artifacts, and values that connect Tampa’s present to its rich immigrant past.
This event is ticketed, and tickets are available now. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.
Tickets on sale through Eventbrite
Adults $25 – Children (Ages 6-12) $10 – Children (5 & Under) Free
La Familia Table for 8 $350