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Photos by Nicole Wright/Staff Correspondent Holy Redeemer Catholic Church sponsored Fiesta Latina on Saturday at the Andrews Community Center, celebrating the independence of Mexico and Central America. -
Many volunteers played important roles in bringing a real taste of Mexico to the Andrews Community Center. -
People of all ages couldn’t sit still Saturday afternoon when the music was playing. -
Church brings Mexican Independence Day festivities to Andrews.
Andrews – Holy Redeemer Catholic Church sponsored Fiesta Latina on Saturday at the Andrews Community Center.
Luis Villagomez said the annual event acts as a fundraiser for the church’s youth group and as a way to involve the community in celebrating the independence of Mexico and Central America.
September is nationally recognized as Hispanic Heritage Month and traditionally starts in the middle of the month, coinciding with the dates the five Central American nations of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua declared independence from Spain in 1821, following Mexico’s independence in 1810.
Villagomez, a 23-year local resident who is originally from Mexico, said this event is important in reaching out to both the Hispanic and Anglo communities in Andrews.
“We’re really impressed with the turnout this year, and how our Anglo neighbors have shown up and participated, and I’m glad we had plenty of food,” he said with a broad smile.
Since becoming a leader in the church, Villagomez is proud to feature local youth dancing folk dances in traditional costumes.
“The children are glad to show up and we’re proud to show our culture to our community,” he said. “We missed last year because of the pandemic, and we’re glad to be back with this event.”
Manuela Coy of Tri-County Community College was also on hand, handing out fliers for English as a Second Language classes and making her way through the crowded room. Coy said she’s happy to attend the festival every year.
The menu included tacos, tamales and flautas and fritters, with flan for dessert, all made and served by members of the church.
“We use this as the main fundraiser for our Feast Day procession for Our Lady of Guadalupe in December and other activities for the youth group,” Villagomez said. “We start at Walgreens and process to the church. It’s our biggest day for the youth and the church.
“And we invite the whole town to attend.”