Noche Mexicana to give Leamington taste of Mexico’s culture and people
The Mexican Consulate in Leamington is inviting area residents to join in the fun of Noche Mexicana, which celebrates that nation’s birth, on Sept. 15.
“It’s our main celebration of the year,” said Mexican Consul Alberto Bernal Acero.
“In Mexico City, hundreds of thousands of people will gather in the main square. Across the country, in every town, people will come together.
“It’s the true feeling and spirit of Mexico. The reason why we’re a nation.”
Acero also sees this year’s festivities as an opportunity to introduce local residents to Mexico’s culture and its people.
For the first time, the celebration will be a standalone event on the consulate’s grounds at 350 Highway 77, Leamington. In years past, the Mexican festival was part of a larger event held at Leamington’s Roma Club involving all Central American nations as well.
“We wanted to give it the true Mexican flavour,” Acero said of hosting the event.
“We’re guests in Canada and Essex County and it’s a way to return to our hosts the generosity and hospitality we’ve received from them,” Acero said.
“We’re grateful and the best way to show it is with this event. Everyone is welcome.”
There are more than 6,000 Mexican citizens working and living in the tri-county region. A significant portion of that number work in the fields and greenhouses around the Leamington area. Acero said it’s estimated Leamington’s Mexican population contributes $14-million to the town’s economy.
Their significance in numbers and dollars has led to 11 sponsors supporting this year’s Noche Mexicana celebrations. The consulate has also worked with the local OPP to help with organization and security.
Acero said the event is an alcohol-free event designed to be a family-focused outing.
“We received strong sponsorship support from companies and farmers,” Acero said.
“It was important to them to help us.”
Acero added Noche Mexicana is also a way to help publicize the existence of the consulate and its services through the area. The festival will run from 5-11 p.m. and will feature food, fireworks and live music with the consul bringing in Mexican band Real Banda and the musical youth ensemble Son Lince from Mexico. Detroit-based mariachi singer Beatriz Montes will also appear.
There is no admission charge. “We also have a couple surprises up our sleeve and some prizes,” Acero said.