Spanish
New York. – Hundreds of Colombians residing in New York gathered this Sunday at the Science Museum, in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park, to commemorate the 215th anniversary of the Cry of Independence, in the 13th edition of the Colombian Pride Independence Festival (FIOC NY).
Under the slogan “Magic and Color”, the party was imbued with folklore, gastronomy, and a strong sense of belonging. Entire families, dressed in tricolor shirts and flags, enjoyed a festive atmosphere that fused the flavor of Colombia with the Latin American vitality of the Big Apple.
Created by Alexandra Aristizábal, the festival started more than a decade ago in Long Island and, in 2019, migrated to Queens to get closer to the numerous Colombian community. Its success lies in having gone from a local celebration to a community meeting point with institutional impact.
The event offered a varied cultural display: typical dishes such as arepas, empanadas, and obleas; handicrafts; traditional dances; and live music. The Guayacán Orchestra, an emblematic band from Colombia, headlined the closing, performing hits that kept the audience dancing until nightfall.
A cultural bridge since 2012
Created by Alexandra Aristizábal, the festival started more than a decade ago in Long Island and, in 2019, migrated to Queens to get closer to the numerous Colombian community. Its success lies in having gone from a local celebration to a community meeting point with institutional impact.
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Tradition, music, and seasoning
The event offered a varied cultural display: typical dishes such as arepas, empanadas, and obleas; handicrafts; traditional dances; and live music. The Guayacán Orchestra, an emblematic band from Colombia, headlined the closing, performing hits that kept the audience dancing until nightfall.
Acknowledgements and Community Unity
The legislature of the state of New York officially proclaimed July 20th as "Colombia Day", underlining the community's contribution to city life. The festival was described as an act of identity strengthening and a forceful message in the face of current migratory challenges.
Voices that move
"The festival was born from the desire to see the yellow, blue and red waving strongly in New York again," said Aristizábal, adding that, despite the migratory uncertainty, the community responded "with joy, unity and the conviction that this country is also ours."
