Thousands gathered in the streets of downtown Santa Ana in celebration of Fiestas Patrias this past weekend.
Editor’s note: This is an occasional series where Voice of OC works with local community photographers to offer residents a first-hand look at the local sites and scenes of Orange County.
Held on 4th street in the city’s historic district, the two-day celebration included a street fair, parade, live music, food, a carnival, cultural exhibitions and more entertainment.
A large part of Orange County’s population is Latino, with a majority identifying as Mexican American.
Over 75% of Santa Ana residents identify as Latino, while over half of residents identify as Latino in neighboring Anaheim.
Fiestas Patrias celebrates Mexican Independence. But independence from Spanish rule is also celebrated in September across Central America and other Latino countries including Chile and Peru.
“Santa Ana’s Fiestas Patrias Parade is a true representation of cultural traditions,” said Paul Eakins, Public Affairs Information Officer for the city. “Hispanic culture is at the core of Santa Ana and the parade creates the space for the community to gather and embrace the vibrant diversity of the city while celebrating its historical heritage.”
Sunday’s parade was followed by a ceremonial El Grito de Independencia, which rang out on the festival’s main stage.
The tradition honors Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla’s call for independence from Spanish rule in Mexico on Sept. 16, 1810.
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