Dancers in traditional costumes dance to salsa music on one of many floats during the Puerto Rican Day Parade on Park Avenue in Bridgeport, Conn. on Sunday, July 12, 2015. Photo: ctpost.com
Under the theme “Power and Pride in Our Voices," this year marks the 24th anniversary of the Puerto Rican Parade of Fairfield County and the public is invited to attend all of four events coming up this weekend.
This three-day celebration of the history, culture and heritage of Puerto Rico begins with a banquet gala Friday, continues with a flag raising Saturday, and then the biggest event, a colorful parade and festival on Sunday.
The Puerto Rican Day Parade on Park Avenue in Bridgeport, Conn. on Sunday, July 12, 2015. Photo: ctpost.com
Friday's gala at the Bridgeport Holiday Inn begins at 6 p.m., with registration at 5:30 p.m.
Edwin Ramos
The guest speaker is Edwin Ramos, a Grammy-winning producer who has worked with clients such as Dr. Dre, Calvin Richardson, Kirk Franklin and Mary J. Blige.
Those who wish to attend must make reservations in advance. There is a $65 admission fee per person. For ticket information, contact Susie Laffitte at 203-218-9471.
The Puerto Rican Parade of Fairfield County Royal Court, with Pageant Coordinator Eva Morales.
The annual flag raising will be hosted at the Bridgeport City Hall, 45 Lyon Terrace, at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, July 8.
Puerto Rican actress Miriam Colón, who passed away this year.
The ceremony is dedicated to the memory of Miriam Colón (Aug. 20, 1936 – March 3, 2017). A Puerto Rican actor, Colón was the founder and director of the Puerto Rican Traveling Theater in New York City. She performed on Broadway and later moved to television, along with a memorable role as Al Pacino's mother in the film "Scarface," she is remembered here for visiting Bridgeport on several occasions.
The parade begins 11:30 a.m. Sunday at Central High School and continues down Park Avenue to Seaside Park. After the parade, the celebrations continue until 7 p.m. at Seaside Park.
Lots of food, fun and dance will greet visitors.
The Latin Rhythm Dance Studio and Vinny & Ray and Son 7 will be joined, direct from Puerto Rico, by Pepe Rios y Orquesta La Mancha and numerous other musical acts on stage at Seaside Park. The Latin Heartbeat Orchestra, Los Viajeros and Orquesta Afinke, Los Cepedes con Bomba Ache, EC Salsero and Elba Llantin will all be live.
