Crowd Enjoys 26th Annual Puerto Rican Festival
By Robin Vinci at July 22, 2024 | 8:15 pm | Print
This year’s Annual Puerto Rican Social and Cultural Festival honored one of New Britain’s home grown champions. State Rep. Robert Sanchez (D-25) was honored by the organization on Friday night and Saturday’s festival was done in his name.
“I am very honored that I am the honoree of the 26th festival,” said Sanchez. “I am a very open person and they know for me it’s not about the political party.”
Sanchez said the most important thing in government is to take care of the City’s people.
“I was born and raised here. I advocate for educational funding,” said Sanchez. “I believe we need more transparency in government.”
Sanchez’s parents were both from Puerto Rico. He and his siblings were born in New Britain.
“I grew up in the projects at Malikowski Circle,” said Sanchez. “When people say that you can’t come out of the projects, I say ‘bull’. You can be still become something.”
Sanchez is the highest ranking Puerto Rican state representative.
“Bobby was awarded for being a champion and getting money for the children,” said Carmelo Rodriguez of the New Britain Latino Coalition. “It honors him for his work and service during the year. Bobby is a humble and simple man.”
The festival featured music, food and cultural events.
“Twenty-six years ago a friend of mine who is in heaven wanted to know why Hartford, New Haven and Bridgeport have a festival? Why can’t we?” said Isabel Rosa, organizer of the Festival. “Fifteen people sat down and talked it and now 26 years here we are.”
The first festival was in the parking lot of the Boys and Girls Club.
“It was a small crowd,” said Rosa. “Not too many people showed up.”
Now a large portion of High Street (from Myrtle to Broad St.) is closed for the event where 3,000-5,000 people show up. There were between 20-30 vendors selling t-shirts, hats, bandannas, flafs and more.
“This means a lot for the Puerto Rican community,” said Rosa. “We like to teach the community who we are and all the positive stuff. Yes we can do it. We are very proud to be part of the Puerto Rican society. We offer good music, good food and Pina Colada’s.”
Those in attendance agreed.
“This represents the best of the heritage of our people. And it’s funny we have people from all different nationalities here,” said Rodriguez. “Coming together with the community is a great thing. I’m happy to be here and be with my people.”
Alderman Willie Pabon, who helps set up the stage and music said it is a great event for everyone.
“This brings the culture back and gets everyone together to have a good time,” Pabon said. “It’s hot, but people are enjoying it.”
The event lasted from noon to 8 p.m. on Saturday.
