Launched in 2019, the annual festival attracts an estimated 4,000 to 6,000 people and features live entertainment on the Farmers Bank Performance Center Stage, a variety of food and vendors, traditional Latin American clothing displays, a flag salute honoring the community’s diversity, and live food demonstrations.

This year’s celebration will also feature Las Posadas: Light & Hope, taking place Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Prairie Creek Park, located at 260 E. Washington St. in Frankfort.

The RAICES Festival will recognize the winners of several events during this year’s festival on Saturday, September 19, in Frankfort.

Mini Model Contest

The Mini Model Contest invites Clinton County residents ages 5 and older to create a colorful, handmade lantern inspired by Las Posadas.

Entries could be submitted individually or by teams of up to four people. Lanterns could be no larger than 2 feet by 3 feet, with a maximum height of 18 inches. Bonus points were available for lanterns that light up.

Prizes include $200 for first place, $100 for second place and $50 for third place. All project models will be displayed during the festival.

The contest is sponsored by Cruzin Dumpsters.

RAICES Essay Contest

The Frankfort Lions Club is sponsoring the 2026 RAICES Festival Essay Contest for Clinton County high school students in grades 9-12.

Students were asked to select from two essay prompts focusing on Las Posadas, shelter, belonging, generosity and modern social issues.

The essays were limited to 500 words and required specific formatting and student information.

Prizes include $200 for first place, $100 for second place and $50 for third place.

RAICES Art Contest

Middle school and high school students who live in Clinton County were invited to participate in the 2026 RAICES Art Contest.

This year’s theme is “The Door Opened for Me.” Students were asked to illustrate a moment when someone welcomed them or gave them an opportunity, either literally or figuratively.

Artwork could be no larger than 13 by 19 inches.

Prizes will be awarded separately for the middle school and high school divisions. In each division, first place will receive $120, second place $60 and third place $30.

The art contest is sponsored by Psi Iota Xi, an organization that supports communities in speech, hearing, art, music and literature.

Winners to Be Recognized at Festival

Winners of the Mini Model, Essay and Art contests will receive their prizes during the RAICES Festival on Saturday, September 19.

The RAICES Festival will bring families and friends together to celebrate the diverse cultures of the Frankfort community through music, food, traditions and activities.