Benque Fiesta – 51st Year of Celebration | Cayo Scoop!  The Ecology of Cayo Culture | Scoop.it

The new Caribbean Culture and Lifestyle magazine has a great article about the Benque Fiesta, which goes from this Thursday, July 13th, through Sunday, July 16th.  The Flor de la Feria pageant is Thursday, during the opening celebrations.  The Super Feria Band will play on Thursday too.

 

"Benque Fiesta is a celebration held annually at Benque Viejo, in honor of the patron saint ‘Our Lady of Mount Carmel’ (Nuestra Señora de Monte Carmelo). It is the largest and longest religious festival held in the Cayo District which started on July 7th and leads to July 16th, the Patrons day.

 

As traditions stand, religious ceremonies, gatherings and nuptials commence– known as ‘Las Alboradas’. Church bells chime in light of morning service for the patron saint with morning praise and worship followed by small social gatherings around the community.  Leading up to July 16, local residents take turns hosting small get-togethers, serving up  traditional favorites. ‘Bollos’ ( small tamales), and sweet and savory pastries – ‘maja blanca’ being some of the popular delights."