La Paz Chattanooga hosted its signature “friendraising” event, Sangria on the Southside last Friday. The event drew more than 300 attendees who spent the evening enjoying live music, dancing, authentic foods and the “Best Sangria in Chattanooga” contest.
Four local restaurants — Amada Tapas & Wine, Mexiville, Mezcla Cocina Y Cantina, and 423 Taco — competed in the “Best Sangria” contest, and Mezcla Cocina Y Cantina was named the winner. The winning sangria was praised for its "classic flavors and traditional red wine base."
La Paz’s inaugural Sangria on the Southside event was hosted in 2008 to help introduce community members to the organization’s work with Chattanooga’s Latino community.
While the annual event was placed on hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic, La Paz leaders decided to bring it back this year as part of the organization’s 20th anniversary.
“Sangria on the Southside is a beloved event by so many of our friends and community supporters, and we were thrilled to revive it during this very special year,” said Stacy Johnson, president and CEO at La Paz Chattanooga. “It was wonderful to bring everyone together in one place to celebrate all that we’ve accomplished together over the past 20 years, and I’m so grateful to everyone who attended.”