Loiza Festival in el Barrio of East Harlem

Multi-colored slurpies scraped from a block of ice, fried patties of platanos (banana) stuffed with stewed chicken and veggies, while an ice cold virgin piña colada or coconut drink cools off the many visitors that each year attend the annual Fiesta de Loiza in New York’s East Harlem. This year’s 30th anniversary brings a diverse community together in a three day celebration of a centuries’ old tradition steeped in African roots mixed with Spanish culture and Caribbean flavor.

Syncopated rhythms from various groups make these streets come alive with dancing, druming and singing. Elders share stories among storytellers as tourists curiously ponder over the many kiosks that feature folkloric arts & crafts showcasing art and handiwork hard to find in this City. Children learn the history of this festival as they decorate and make their own vegigante masks and costumes. They also have their own procession and showcase as the three-day festival focuses on children, women and men highlighting each gender’s achievements and accomplishments throughout the year.

At a time when East Harlem is quickly being gentrified, the annual Loiza Festival keeps Puerto Rican traditions firmly grounded in a community that shares its centuries old customs with those coming up behind them. Help us bring this summer festival to its colorful beauty.

Friday, Saturday,& Sunday July 27, 28 & 29th, 2012

Between 105th – 104th Streets & Lexington Avenue
240 E. 123rd Street Between 1st & 2nd Avenues
New York, NY 10029
11:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m.

For more information on the festival or to become a vendor visit the website at:  http://www.cccadi.org/node/760  or call:  212.307.7420 ext. 3004