By The Star Staff
Loíza Mayor Julia Nazario Fuentes on Monday invited the community to celebrate the traditional festival in honor of Santiago Apóstol, with musical events scheduled from this Friday to Sunday, July 30 under the slogan “Dale Pa’la Calle” (Take It to the Street).
The Santiago festivities tell the story of Loíza in that they represent the unique fusion of Spanish culture and African culture in Puerto Rico.
“In a historical context, as Don Ricardo Alegría, founder of the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture, studied, part of the integration of Puerto Rican society was created when Africans, who for centuries were incorporated into society, enriched it with their culture,” the mayor said. “We are very enthusiastic about these celebrations and about receiving all the visitors from Puerto Rico and the United States who set aside these days to come and share with their family.”
To facilitate their organization, the festival’s events have been divided into three themes: the musical program, cultural and sports activities, and events -- masses and processions -- that have been organized by both the Espíritu Santo and San Patricio Parish located in the town’s urban center, and the Santiago Apóstol Parish located in Medianía.