Colorado Creative Industries Summit
We’re honored to be presenting at the 2025 CCI Summit: Way Out West, where visionaries from across the creative industries will gather to explore the future of arts, culture and innovation. Our session, “Food as Art, Storytelling, and Immigrant Empowerment, will dive into how culinary traditions carry identity, history, and resilience—a conversation that is more relevant than ever.
This summit isn’t just another conference. It’s a gathering of trailblazers shaping the future of art, policy, and community impact. Whether you’re an artist, advocate, or creative leader, this is where the conversations that matter most are happening.
Reserve your ticket now on Eventbrite and join us for an unforgettable experience in Grand Junction, Colorado!
Workshop + Documentary
Join us for an inspiring workshop and documentary screening at Anythink Libraries!
Enjoy Salvadorean pupusas and explore the powerful stories behind food, culture, and community in this engaging workshop led by Dr. Julia. We’ll screen the Cocina Libre documentary, then hear firsthand from two immigrant chefs as they share their journeys and experiences in the culinary world.
🍽️ Free and open to all
This event highlights the impact of community-powered food initiatives and celebrates the voices of chefs working toward independence and sustainable careers.
Come be part of the conversation—and the inspiration.
El Salvadoran Pupusa Cooking Demo & Dinner
Join us for a unique culinary experience where you'll learn how to make authentic dishes from El Salvador led by Cocina Libre's talented chef Carlos. This dinner features a live cooking demonstration, followed by a shared meal and drinks.
Reserve Your Spot Here
This event is donation-based ($50 suggested donation per person per event). All profits beyond expenses directly support immigrant chefs by providing professional culinary training and assistance in obtaining the necessary licenses to run their own food businesses. Your contribution helps these chefs gain independence, build sustainable careers, and expand their impact in our community.
Mexican Poke Bowl Cooking Demo + Dinner
Join us for a unique culinary experience where you'll learn how to make authentic dishes from Mexico led by Cocina Libre's talented chef Alejandro. This dinner features a live cooking demonstration, followed by a shared meal and drinks.
Reserve Your Spot Here
This event is donation-based ($50 suggested donation per person per event). All profits beyond expenses directly support immigrant chefs by providing professional culinary training and assistance in obtaining the necessary licenses to run their own food businesses. Your contribution helps these chefs gain independence, build sustainable careers, and expand their impact in our community.
Venezuelan Arepa’s Cooking Demo + Dinner
Join us for a one-of-a-kind evening where food, culture, and storytelling come together! We’ll learn from Chef Lila how to make Venezuelan arepas, followed by a delicious dinner. Come see firsthand how traditional dishes are prepared, while hearing the powerful stories behind them.
Location: Chambers Center, University of Denver
Tickets: $50 suggested donation
Reserve Your Spot Here
Spots are limited, so get your ticket soon and don’t miss this unique experience!
What to Expect at a Cocina Libre Dinner
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Food
At Cocina Libre dinners, you’ll savor authentic, home-cooked meals prepared by immigrant chefs sharing flavors from their homelands. Each dish tells a story of resilience and cultural pride, from savory Puerto Rican mofongo to rich Ethiopian doro wat. This isn’t just a meal—it’s a representation of the chef’s journey.
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Stories
Behind every plate is a powerful story. Our chefs share personal journeys of migration, perseverance, and hope. You'll hear firsthand about the challenges they've faced and the dreams they've pursued, connecting deeply with the people and cultures behind the food. These stories nourish the soul, fostering empathy and understanding across communities.
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Experiences
Cocina Libre dinners go beyond food and storytelling with interactive activities led by local artists and cultural leaders. Depending on the event attendees may participate in hands-on art workshops, offering a creative space for guests to reflect on their own stories while engaging with the rich traditions of our featured chefs. Come for the food, stay for the connection.
IMPACT
By attending a Cocina Libre dinner, you’re directly supporting immigrant chefs and amplifying their voices. Your participation helps create spaces where cultures are celebrated, stories are shared, and communities come together. Every meal funds opportunities for these chefs to thrive, turning personal narratives into collective change.