Iconic LA donkey attraction in peril as judge makes bombshell ruling

After more than six decades, the iconic donkey display at Olvera Street may soon be removed following a state court ruling requiring the eviction of its owners.

The colorful Mexican cart, known as “La Carreta,” featuring Jorge, a stuffed burro dressed in a traditional sarape, has long been a favorite photo spot for visitors to Los Angeles.

A visitor in a sombrero and sarape sits on a donkey prop as another man takes his picture, with a festive sign behind them. — The Mexican cart known as “La Carreta” has become a staple icon in Los Angeles. Getty Images

The family who operates the stand recently lost a legal dispute with the city. Richard Hernandez, whose mother had asked for his name to be added to the vendor lease, discovered after her passing that this had never been formalized, and he was not given an explanation.

Shortly afterward, the city issued an eviction notice. According to a statement from the mayor’s office, the expiration of the lease opens the space to public bidding under city contracting rules. “Mr. Hernandez has been informed that the bidding process is open to the public,” the statement said.

Two boys pose with a stuffed burro on Olvera Street, one wearing a green sombrero and holding a serape, the other a colorful serape and holding a small guitar. — An iconic donkey stand may soon have to go after a state court ruled the owners need to be evicted. Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

For Hernandez, the prospect of losing the stand is deeply personal. He has worked at La Carreta since he was 13, and his family launched a GoFundMe campaign to help compete in the upcoming public bid.

“I’m not asking for a handout — I’m asking for support to help bid for our family’s spot and preserve this small business, this family legacy, and this beloved Los Angeles landmark,” Hernandez wrote. He also noted that he attempted to address city concerns, including paying back rent, but was unable to reach a resolution.

Nancy Martinez rolls a burro prop into storage on Olvera Street. — At the end of a day, Nancy Martinez rolls Jorge into storage in a restaurant facing the plaza on Olvera Street in LA. Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

Local residents and fellow vendors expressed sorrow at the potential loss of Jorge. “Keep him here. He’s part of Olvera Street. You’re just chipping away at all our families,” one vendor told KTLA, reflecting the strong community attachment to the stand.

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