La Calle Mexicana has grown from a small and local street fair in Vinohrady to a full takeover of Americká street, bringing Prague to life with color, live music, vendors, dancing, and special delicacies for the annual celebration of Latin culture.
The festival began with a traditional chant from the mainstage, commemorating the start of Mexico’s fight for independence, similar to the historic El Grito cheer that marked Mexican Independence Day 203 years ago.
“¡Vivan Aldama y Matamoros! ¡Vivan los Mexicanos viviendo en Czechia! ¡Viva la Independencia Nacional! ¡Viva México!” the event organizers from the Mexican Embassy in Prague shouted from the top of their lungs. The chant roughly translates roughly to: “Long live Aldama and Matamoros (revolutionary rebel soldiers)! Long live the Mexicans living in Czechia! Long live the nation’s independence! Long live México!”
The crowd responded with a resounding “¡Viva!” to each incantation, with the cries growing stronger each time. The Mexican flag waved in time with the bell chimes, heightening the spirit of the attendees and the city’s first Mexican mariachi band, Mariachi Azteca de Praga, started their live performance.
Although the festival was rescheduled twice due to the threat of severe weather, that did not stop hundreds of people- Prague-based and beyond- from joining this annual event on Americká and Záhřebská streets.
“I came from Brno to Prague for the festival. I wanted to join my friends in a celebration of hispanic culture, and this event exceeded my expectations,” said Masaryk University student Glen Golden. “It was my first time at an event like this, and there were so many more people than I expected. You could feel the smiles on peoples faces radiating from every direction.”
Following Mariachi Azteca de Praga was rock-cumbia fusion band Faustina Calavera, a surprise guest coordinated by Cumbia Cooperativa that was sought after by regulars at Latin events. Initially met with confusion due to their unique sound, their vibrant stage presence and distinctive renditions of popular songs quickly grew on people, getting them to dance throughout the entire set.
After a day full of concerts, workshops, dance, shopping, delicious food, and refreshing cocktails from around the world, the festivities came to an end. However, the sense of pride and cultural celebration lingered long after.
Zazít Americkou Jinak is more than just an annual event; it’s a lively testament to the strength and unity of Latin American culture in Prague- a celebration that continues to connect and inspire.
More Latin events including dance and music performances, food and drinks, film, art, gigs, and festivals, can be found on the eventos latinos facebook page.
A celebrar siempre con orgullo.
