Last weekend, the Marez Events Center in downtown Oxnard burst into a vibrant display of red, white, and green as Mexican flags and festive decorations adorned the venue, creating a celebratory atmosphere in anticipation of the “Fiestas Patrias” (Patriotic Holidays) celebration, organized this year by Radio La M. Alicia T. Basurto was the Master of Ceremonies. The festivities will continue this weekend and conclude with the ceremonial “Grito de Independencia” (Cry of Independence) and live music at La Placita in Oxnard. “Attendees will enjoy a joyful and colorful parade and a rich variety of traditional dishes, while vendors and information booths create a lively market, offering everything from handcrafted goods to community resources,” said Gerardo Ceja, President of Radio La M, to VIDA Newspaper.
“Fiestas Patrias” celebrates Mexico’s Independence Day on September 16. This day marks the historic moment in 1810 when Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla issued the “Grito de Independencia,” a call for Mexicans to rise up in arms against Spanish rule. The “Grito de Independencia” launched a revolution that would eventually lead to Mexico’s freedom; it is a moment of national pride that honors Mexican liberty not only in Mexico but in communities across the globe. In Oxnard, celebrations began on Saturday, September 5, with the 4th annual Señorita Fiestas Patrias festival, organized by West Coast Cultural Arts (WCCA). Eilee Sanjuan won the Fiestas Patrias pageant, representing the beautiful state of Chihuahua.
During the coronation event, several community members—including “VIDA Newspaper”—were also presented with awards recognizing their invaluable contributions to the betterment and well-being of the community.
“We are so proud to host this pageant here in our community and to provide a queen each year for these important celebrations, as well as an opportunity for the participating young women to develop social skills that will help them in their professional and personal lives,” said Angelica Cisneros, Vice President and founder of West Coast Cultural Arts and the event organizer.
