The Oak Cliff Coalition for the Arts (OCCA) in collaboration with The Latino Cultural Center presented Fiesta Patrias! Mrs. Sylvana Avila Alonzo (Founder of OCCA) is responsible for organizing this cultural event.
Also known as Diez Y Seis de Septiembre (September 16th), the celebration commemorates the day when Hidalgo initiated a fight for freedom with a grito (call or shout), which was the beginning of Mexico’s battle for independence from Spain.
This was a free community event which featured a program including an award ceremony recognizing AARP Texas and Melodia Gutierrez for the advancement of cultural arts in Dallas, Dancers of the Hispanic of the Arts Ballet Folklorico offering traditional to modern dance, Mariachi Lone Star gave a musical array of well-known Mexican songs, and El Grito was presented by Consul General Francisco De La Torre, State Rep. Roberto R. Alonzo, John Martinez with RHCA and of course Sylvana Avila Alonzo.
At the event, there were vendors offering traditional Mexican goods, there was authentic Mexican food and other activities focusing on activities and events pertaining to the Mexican-American culture. It was a fun-filled event for the whole family.
