FresYes Fest will be held in Downtown Fresno Saturday from 1 to 11 p.m. Photo by Dylan Gonzales

Attendees from across the Central Valley will converge on Downtown Fresno Saturday, March 22, for the annual FresYes Fest, held from 1 to 11 p.m. 

Portions of Fulton, Inyo and Kern streets will be closed for FresYes Fest, including Fulton from Tulare to Cesar Chavez Boulevard, Inyo from Broadway to Fulton and Mono from Fulton to Broadway.

Mike Osegueda, one of the event’s co-founders and the president of Fresno Street Eats, started the event in 2012. Since then, with the exception of a few events wiped out by the COVID-19 pandemic, FresYes Fest has been a staple in the Central Valley. 

“I think it’s important for cities like Fresno to have these free events where people can come out, walk around and check out all kinds of stuff and spend the day shopping and watching bands,” Osegueda said.

One of the highlights of FresYes Fest is its extensive selection of food vendors. Fresno Street Eats helps ensure a well-balanced mix of food options, considering factors such as popularity, uniqueness, and past success at the festival. While longtime favorites return year after year, new vendors are also introduced to keep things fresh for attendees.

“I think as we approach this event, we’re always trying to look for multi-generational appeal,” Osegueda said. “We want stuff that appeals to all ages. We want stuff that kids like, and we want stuff that adults like.”

Osegueda said around 25% of vendors each year are first-timers to FresYesFest. 

In addition to food and shopping, FresYes Fest will provide attendees with an interactive experience. This year, the festival features an expanded Michelada Trail with eight vendors scattered throughout the event, allowing guests to sample different variations of the popular beverage. Another new attraction is the Birdie Club mobile golf simulator, sponsored by the Fresno Grizzlies, which gives festivalgoers a chance to test their golf skills at no cost.

On Tuesday, FresYes Fest hosted a media day, during which local reporters could try some of the food, beverages, and merchandise from the five trucks and pop-ups that were available.

 

Fulton Factory

Fulton Factory specializes in custom shirts and embroidered patches that celebrate the culture and pride of the Central Valley. Owner and designer Grant Woods creates unique, one-of-a-kind hats and graphic tees, allowing customers to customize their gear on the spot. A Fresno State alum, Woods sees his brand as both a creative outlet and a way to represent his hometown.

“If you’re a prideful person and you got that Central Valley pride, you will definitely find something that you like, something one of a kind. You can customize your hat, and I have graphic tees. You will definitely be satisfied if you shop at Fulton Factory.” Woods said.

 

ProMix559

ProMix559, founded by Isis Tapia, has been serving up Micheladas since 2017. The business gained traction during the COVID-19 pandemic and now sells products in stores across the Central Valley. Tapia enjoys working with Fresno’s diverse community and looks forward to the energetic crowds at FresYes Fest.

 

The Rolling Donut Fresno

James Pierson has been running his donut food truck since March 2018, specializing in made-to-order, fresh donuts. He collaborates with Fresno Street Eats and serves private parties and schools. Despite recent challenges with ArtHop changes, he remains passionate about his work in the Central Valley.

Pierson shared what differentiates The Rolling Donut from other donut places. 

“We make everything fresh,” he said. “When you order, you’re going to get 10 of the same ones, but they’re made fresh. Nothing’s pre-made, so when you get it, it’s hot, and nothing beats a fresh hot donut.”

 

Papas Locas Food Truck

Run by Edward Moreno, Papas Locas serves fried spiral-cut potatoes on a stick, loaded with toppings like nacho cheese, carne asada, bacon and Hot Cheeto dust. What started as a hobby with a small tent quickly grew into a popular food trailer due to strong community support. This year marks their first time at FresYes Fest, and they’re excited to introduce their signature snacks to the crowd.

“We hear a lot of good stories about FresYes Fest, how there’s so many people, and it’s a lot of fun. So we’re really looking forward to all that,” Moreno said. 

 

Harry’s Mexican Grill 

Edgar González, owner of Harry’s Mexican Grill, offers a new take on classic Mexican food by incorporating premium meats like prime rib and smoked brisket. With options such as tacos topped with melted cheese, garlic aioli and real guacamole, González aims to provide a unique dining experience. This will be Harry’s Mexican Grill’s first time at FresYes Fest, and they anticipate a lively turnout.

“Everyone says that FresYes Fest is crazy. I was here last year. But as a vendor, this is gonna be the first year. So we expect it to be the best day for us because it’s our first year in business,” González said.