(ST. JOSEPH, Mo.) The St. Patrick’s Fiesta entered its second day, bringing together a vibrant mix of cultures for a weekend of celebration and community support.
The festival honors the diverse heritage of St. Joseph and St. Patrick’s Parish, featuring live music, the debut of horseback riding, cultural performances, and an array of international foods.
“A lot of the people who are now selling food, this would be kind of like their first stop when they got to St. Joseph,” said Isuara Garcia, a member of St. Patrick’s Parish. “St. Patrick’s does a really good job at mimicking Latin or Hispanic masses.”
With a history spanning nearly a century, the fiesta began as a fundraiser for the former Holy Rosary Parish and now supports St. Patrick’s Parish.
“It’s a primary fundraiser for St. Patrick’s Parish, where most Hispanic Catholic families gather. It’s been a tradition carried on for years,” said Ron Barbosa, another parish member.
Attendees especially praised the wide variety of Latin American cuisine, with dishes representing countries across Central and South America.
“We have all kinds of cultures from Central and South America that have come together and taken pride in carrying on the Fiesta,” Barbosa added.
Many vendors, like José Ramos, a Venezuelan immigrant, are parish members themselves.
Ramos, who moved to St. Joseph for a friend, found the community incredibly welcoming.
“We are selling arepas, a traditional Venezuelan dish. This is a Latin party where we all come together and share our culture with others, from Mexico to Guatemala and beyond,” he said.
St. Patrick’s Parish serves as a cultural melting pot, and events like the fiesta offer a chance to experience St. Joseph’s rich diversity.
Planning for next year’s celebration begins just a week from now, ensuring the tradition continues for generations to come.
