Native American dancers Olvera plaza
Downtown / Downtown Los Angeles / Travel blog Los Angeles

Aztec Fire Dancers perform at the Blessing of the Animals celebration

by carollightwood
red black feather dancer olvera st
The red and black feathers on this man’s dance costume were as dramatic as his dancing.

I love the unexpected things I find in Los Angeles.  I went to the annual Blessing of the Animals in the plaza by Olvera Street and who should be performing but the amazing Aztec Fire Dancers.

Aztec girl red top
Not all costumes were elaborately beaded. This dancer’s outfit was a tank top, black shorts and a piece of skulls head fabric that is easily available around L.A. She did have great ankle rattles, however.

The dancers gathered at the foot of the statue of Carlos III, the Spanish king who authorized and financed the founding of L.A.  in 1781 and waited until all the prayers were said by Archbishop Gomez before they launched their show. (Several children’s dance troupes also performed but I will post about them tomorrow.)

Originally published in 2017.

Carlos III statue Olvera Street
Before they began their performance, the Aztec Fire Dancers gathered at the foot of the statue of Carlos III of Spain.
Aztec ankle rattles
Ankle rattles for an Aztec Dancer. The troupe’s name is ‘Aztec’ but these rattles could be part of many native American dance costumes.
Aztec Fiire Dancers red feathers
The plaza was packed with spectators for this high energy group of dancers.
Aztec dancers Olvera St plaza 2017
Some of the costumes were incredibly elaborate beaded creations like this green one in the center.
Aztec dancers in procession
Some of the dancers were in the religious procession lead by Archbishop Gomez for the Blessing of the Animals. All religions are welcome at this event.

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