Annual Lubbock tradition celebrates Hispanic heritage

by Lisa Hernandez, staff writer

 

The smell of fajitas and the sound of Tejano music brought the atmosphere to life as the Fiestas De Llano began.

The Fiestas de Llano kicked off a three-day celebration on Sept. 12, with a scholarship pageant, "The Miss Hispanic Lubbock" pageant. Eight young, Hispanic women competed for the title by showing off their talent and discussing their platforms. By the end of the night, Lillian Cordero was crowned Miss Hispanic Lubbock, while Melissa Garcia finished runner-up, and South Plains College student Alicia Montes was selected as the second runner-up.

 Some of the floats in the parade really depicted what Hispanic culture is all about. There were bright floats with green, red, and white paper flowers and streamers, along with antique, Low Rider cars, that bounced and excited audiences.

The sounds of tejano music echoed down the street as each car passed by in the parade. There were people, either sitting along the route or who participated in the event, who held itself holding the Mexican flag proudly. One small girl, who couldn’t have been more than 4 years old, walked down the street during the parade handing out plastic sandwich bags full of candy.

The Fiestas De Llano celebrates the battle for Mexican independence on Sept. 17 1753. Each year many people of all ages, ethnicities and cultures gather in downtown Lubbock to help celebrate freedom, the freedom to live, and the freedom to love and, the freedom to have fun.

Barbequing and cookouts are a big part of Hispanic culture, so food is highlighted at this event. There were Turkey legs, Funnel cakes, Fajitas, Tripas, among the many items available. At every food booth, many different thirst-quenching drinks were also sold. It was hard to walk past more than two people who did not have something to eat or drink in their hands.

Music also was an integral part of the event. Mariachi bands played as Ballet Florcorico dancers wowed audiences with their impressive dance moves and their beautiful, colorful outfits. Many dancers were experienced, though some were young children just getting started. Several bands made an appearance. Ruben Ramos, a Tejano musician also made an appearance on Sept. 14. Dancing and music are prevalent  in the Hispanic culture.

The colors of the fiestas were simply breath taking. The Mexican colors of red, green, and white were vibrant everywhere a person looked. But of course it wasn’t just those colors.

The Fiestas De Llano is an annual tradition in Lubbock that seems to bring in more people year after year. It helps Hispanics feel proud of their heritage, while offering a lot of fun and activities.