Thursday, September 20, 2018

Feria del Barrio in Philadelphia: A True Community Festival, taking place on Sunday, September 23

Longtime Philly resident Elba Dormoi showing her ornate Panamanian pollera at the Feria in 2017
The Latino community of Philadelphia is an integral part of the city's tourism offerings. At a short distance from the center of town, many cultural manifestations such as food are available. With that in mind, tours were developed hitting some of the key community centers and sampling the culture.

One event located in this same community is the Feria del Barrio, which loosely translated means Neighborhood Block Party, but in reality this is a larger festival than a typical block party. This event has been in existence since 1979 and is an important component of the Latino community's efforts to affirm and celebrate their heritage with performances, food, crafts and activities for kids. I always like to participate in these events as a way to experience the culture when I can't travel to the countries directly.

I have been to so many of the Ferias over the years that I've lost count, but I can say that I've been more involved in its planning starting in 2016 via the organization I co-founded with Yolanda Alcorta in 1991, Raíces Culturales Latinoamericanas (Latin American Cultural Roots), or Raíces for short (www.raicesculturales.org). The event this year takes place Sunday, September 23, from noon to 5 pm and stretches north two blocks from 5th and Huntingdon Streets to 5th and Somerset Streets, with the main stage in the middle at 5th St. and Lehigh Ave. The co-sponsors along with Raíces are Taller Puertorriqueño, Congreso de Latinos Unidos, and HACE (Hispanic Association of Contractors and Enterprises), along with Telemundo 62. We are especially enthusiastic this year because we are increasing our cultural offerings at our tables in front of the Taller Puertorriqueño's beautiful modern facility, opened in 2016. We'll feature workshops from the performing groups Inca Wayra, Ballet Folklórico Yaretzi, and Raíces Boricuas, as well as a Guatemalan weaver. The website is feria.tallerpr.org if you want to learn more.


Friday, September 14, 2018

Info on my presentation: Diversity in Caribbean Culture: An Introduction

Diversity in Caribbean Culture: An Introduction

Friday, September 14 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

FREE
Michael Esposito, co-founder of Raices Culturales Latinoamericanas will lead a lively and vivid discussion on the diverse Caribbean Culture. A global traveller and world adventurer, Mike dives into the Caribbean exploring the unique islands and peoples of the tropics. He is most at home with the Latino Roots Culture and cross-connection of the Caribbean Roots.
Caribbean Community in Philadelphia will collaborate with Raices in facilatating a dialogue of multi-layered dimension.
Councilman Brendan Boyle’s Office will be represented with resourceful information for the immigrant community.
A first installment of Caribbean Conversions during Philly Welcoming Week.

Venue

Taller Puertorriqueño
2600 N 5th St 
Philadelphia, PA 19133 United States
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