Eliana es La Reina del Festival
At the first Festival Latino, all the Reina contestants were Ocracoke high school students. This year, the contest was open to girls in 2nd–5th grades.
Although Mexican food sales and yard sales helped a few girls with the fundraising, Eliana said she "just asked people for money." You go, girl!
For the crowning ceremony, a gathering of festival committee members, festival supporters, and the girls' friends and family members met at Deepwater Theater last Saturday. Each girl represented a state or region of Mexico and wore the native fiesta costume. The Festival Latino's director, Freddy Contreras, showed short video clips about each state (translating into English for those of us who needed that.) You can see the girls dressed up again at the Festival on Saturday.
Eliana represents the state of Tamaulipas, which she picked because of its similarities to Ocracoke. There are beautiful Gulf Coast beaches, shrimp boats at the docks, and fishermen all around. Tamaulipas borders Texas and is a popular fishing and hunting spot for vacationing Americans. Eliana is in 4th grade and is the daughter of Margarita Gonzalez and Elias Contreras.
Melanie represents the state of Chiapas, located in the south of Mexico bordering Guatemala. Chiapas has mountain ranges, rainforests, tropical jungle, and ancient Mayan ruins. It's home to several important archaeological sites and protected natural areas. Melanie is in 5th grade and is the daughter of Gloria and Junior Perez.
Ammy represents the state of Aguascalientes, located in the center of Mexico with a mostly desert climate. If you know even a tiny bit of Spanish, you won't be surprised to learn that Aguascalientes is home to famous hot springs. It's also known for its Spanish Colonial architecture, the huge San Marco Fair, modern industries, and charros (Mexican cowboys.) Ammy is in 4th grade and is the daughter of Antonia Ortiz.
Jami represents the state of Jalisco. Freddy pointed out that when Americans think of Mexican culture, they are thinking of Jalisco; tequila, mariachi bands, rodeos, dresses with wide skirt woven with ribbons, guacamole, sombreros, and the Mexican hat dance all originated in Jalisco. Puerto Vallarta and the beaches are popular tourist areas. Jami is in 3rd grade and is the daughter of Vanessa and Mel Perez.
The Festival Latino de Ocracoke celebrates the island Latino community's cultural ties to Mexico and the connection they feel to their island friends and neighbors.
"We are so lucky to be here, and grateful to be a part of the community," said Freddy. "We share the Festival to say thank you for the support and help."
"The Latinos here need to be united, and share with everyone here. We will laugh, play, have fun, and open our hearts," said Eduardo Chavez, a member of the Festival Latino's planning committee.
This year’s Festival Latino de Ocracoke daytime activities will take place on the Books to be Red lawn. Traditional games and food from different regions of Mexico will be available, as well as Tamale, Churro, and Itacate workshops. “Flor y Canto,” a folkloric group with roots from Guerrero, Mexico, will perform throughout the day.
Saturday evening, a program including music and traditional dances by Ballet Folklorico “Orgullo y Alma Latina” and community members, will be held at the Ocracoke school gym followed by a Latino dance at the Ocracoke Community Center featuring Kalidad Musical.
Volunteers are still needed. Contact Freddy Contreras or David Tweedie if you'd like to help out.
Festival Latino de Ocracoke is organized by the Ocracoke Latino community with the support of Ocracoke Alive, a community non-profit committed to enriching Ocracoke Island. Additional support is provided by Ocracoke Occupancy Taxes, and private individuals and businesses.
Visit www.ocracokealive.org for more information and donations.
