Fiestas Patrias

Two of my favorite subjects are celebrations and freedom. Anytime I can find a way to put the two together, I’m all in! The 250th celebration of independence this past fourth of July was phenomenal. In fact the year-long celebration all over the country has been fantastic for me and my thirst to celebrate freedom. 

Coming up September 15th and 16th is a celebration of freedom near and dear to many in our stunning Temecula Valley but a momentous event that is barely recognized in our country. Of course, I’m talking about the annual Fiestas Patrias celebration! 

Fiestas Patrias: A Deep and Rich Holiday

So, what exactly is Fiestas Patrias? The words translate to "national patriotic holidays." It’s the catch-all term for independence celebrations across several Latin American nations commemorating, in essence, the historic break from Spanish colonial rule. You may never have heard of it but it’s a big deal. 

The history of Fiestas Patrias is powerful. For Mexico, September 15th and 16th are the dates that mark the anniversary of their independence journey. It all kicked off back in 1810 with a late-night speech called the Grito de Dolores by Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla. The speech was an absolute call for freedom. The next day, he and his small band of freedom fighters began what became a very long war to end Spanish control. Chile also celebrates its move toward freedom on September 18th, marking the formation of their first local government junta. In Peru, they celebrate July 28th and 29th, honoring the day General José de San Martín declared them free.

Don't Lose The Meaning

Similar to the American equivalent, Independence Day celebration, Fiestas Patrias can get lost in the modernization of the celebration and the focus on entertainment and consumerism. However, there is still the reason for the celebrations that exist at the core of each: freedom and independence. Younger generations may not understand the significance until the previous generation helps bring clarity and significance to the sacrifice and passion. The festivals represent the survival of a nation's spirit and the soul of its people. 

Isn’t it interesting that, like the United States of America, the revolution to freedom in Mexico was kicked off by those who wore the robes of the clergy? In America, the early stand-for-freedom fighters were known as The Black Robe Regiment. They were preachers, pastors, and priests willing to stand for the right to govern and worship freely. In Mexico it was a priest who led the charge to freedom. 

Take In The Celebration

I so want for you to experience a Fiestas Patrias celebration first hand. Unfortunately, there is no such celebration here in the Temecula Valley. Hemet and the Ice Cream Festival (Paleta Festival) on September 18th and 19th is happening but it’s a culture and ice cream day; not necessarily a celebration of Mexico’s independence. 

However, you wouldn’t have to go far to take in a solid, city-wide celebration. Just head through the hills on the Ortega Highway and sprint north on 5 into downtown Santa Anna on September 13th and 14th. The annual Santa Anna Fiestas Patrias celebration is going to be a spectacular weekend with a parade, street fair, carnival rides, and some great live entertainment. They’ll even have the traditional "El Grito" ceremony on Saturday night at 7 p.m. It’s a great way to enjoy the culture, celebrate the bonds of the community, and pay tribute to that enduring spirit of freedom. 

Fiestas Patrias - A national patriotic celebration for our neighbors to the south in Mexico. Patriots celebrating the liberation from oppressive rule. In other words; celebrating freedom. The celebration is a victory dance for the people.

One More Thing

In America there are two national holidays that celebrate freedom for ALL people. Christmas is the celebration of a baby born to save the world from itself, one person at a time. Easter is a celebration of that same baby, now grown and recognized as God, defeating death for you and for me. Sure, each celebration may be wrapped in pretty paper, decorated trees, easter eggs, and bunnies but the real celebration is your freedom and my freedom and the gift of eternal life that comes with that freedom. 

By the way, you don’t have to start a revolutionary war to get this freedom. It’s a gift offered to you for free. If you’d like to learn more about that, reach out. I’d love to share a coffee, Fiesta Patrias stories, and Jesus with you.