Local residents of Syracuse’s West Side, in close partnership with SU’s Hispanic communities, will co-host a celebration to commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month at La Casita Cultural Center. Sept. 20 will kick off the four-week program of special events, all of which are open to the public.
The month-long celebration is the result of a newly formed alliance between the city’s and the campus’s Hispanic communities. This dynamic merger of strengths promises a magnificent tribute to the Hispanic presence in the city.
Balcon Criollo is a gallery-wide installation of meaningful artifacts showcasing the community’s most cherished memories, their countries of origin and family histories.
“Balcón Criollo” (Creole Balcony) is a new exhibition built by local carpenters and teens participating in La Casita programs. “Balcón Criollo” will showcase a gallery-wide installation of memorabilia, artwork, traditional music instruments, costumes, photos, devotional imagery, antiques and more.
All items are being loaned by local families, many of whom will be present at the opening event and through the following weeks to share their family histories.
Throughout the four weeks, events will include Caribbean cuisine tastings, a domino tournament and the much anticipated Bomba & Plena Festival, with lively performances by La Casita’s own Bomba & Plena Dance Troupe and the Rochester-based ensemble Pleneros D’Borikén.
Luz Encarnación, the center’s youth programming coordinator and community liaison, is the producer of four main events in collaboration with the YWCA, CNY Latino Newspaper and The College of Arts and Sciences, which supports and oversees the entire production. “We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to showcase our rich heritage and the legacy of the Hispanic residents of Central New York,” says Encarnación.
La Casita is hosting this collective show of local art through Oct. 10. All program events free of charge and open to the public, with free parking available.
Hispanic Heritage Month Program at La Casita Cultural Center:
“Balcón Criollo”
Friday, Sept. 20, 6-8 p.m.
Neighborhood residents will co-host with local artists to greet visitors and share personal stories related to the items on display. Selected community members who have played a positive role in the history of the West Side community will receive special recognition at this event. Music will be provided by DJ “La Maquina” (Roberto Perez). Light refreshments will be served.
Nuestro Sabor, A Taste of Latin America
Saturday, Sept. 28, 1-4 p.m.
Traditional dishes for all to taste will be featured as members of the Hispanic community showcase the best Caribbean cuisine and share family recipes. Music provided by DJ “La Maquina” (Roberto Perez).
Torneo de Dominó, Domino Tournament
Friday, Oct. 4, 4 – 7 p.m.
An domino tournament is open to community teams to compete. Winners receive a trophy and cash award at the Hispanic Heritage closing event at La Casita on Oct. 10. Co-produced with NY Latino. Light refreshments will be served.
Bomba & Plena Festival
Thursday, Oct. 10, 6 – 8 p.m.
The closing event for Hispanic Heritage Month will bring the community together for a festival of Caribbean rhythms, live music and dance performance. Light refreshments will be served.
