In Episode #2 of Season 2 of Community Builders, we sit down with creator and community organizer Lucia Mercado, the force behind Lunar Market, Divine Sundays, and several of Chico’s most vibrant cultural events. Lucia shares her journey from growing up in Riverside to building a life in Chico centered around creativity, inclusion, and community connection.
Lucia talks about how her early experiences shaped her compassion for others and why she believes everyone deserves a place to belong. She walks us through the origins of Lunar Market, how it grew from a small pop-up into a Chico favorite, and why she is committed to keeping her events free, welcoming, and accessible to families of all backgrounds. We discuss the power of creative spaces, the importance of “the weird and alternative,” and how her vendors, musicians, and volunteers have become a community of their own.
Lucia also opens up about her work with Explore Butte County and how she helps highlight the events, organizers, and hidden gems across Butte County. Her story is a reminder of how much can change when someone believes in community, listens to people’s needs, and creates places where everyone is invited to show up as themselves.
Whether you love local events, are curious about Chico’s creative scene, or are someone looking for your own sense of belonging, this episode offers a heartfelt look at how meaningful spaces come to life through passion, courage, and collaboration.
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👉 Watch the live video recorded episode here
EPISODE CREDITS:
Hosted by Dorian Cohen
Produced by Metric Studios
Edited by Michael Bone and Seth Ryan Trachtman
Audio mixed by Michael Bone
Artwork designed by Dorian Cohen
Segment jingles licensed through Music Bed
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