La Penita Community Holds Patron Festival 2021
Tara A. Spears
After the fear and economic suffering of 2020 it is so uplifting to see the Jaltemba Bay community giving thanks for reaching the green level in covid19 cases. It was so somber to stay at home last year instead of attending church or doing anything out in public. The annual May celebration of the Patron Saint’s Festival of Our Lady of the Rosary is one of the most anticipated events in Jaltemba Bay. This year, the festival kicks off Friday, May 14 and runs for 11 days. Each day the different colonias (neighborhoods) in La Peñita participate in marching down the avenida culminating in a novena at the church. The participants show their devotion to Nuestra Señora del Rosario de Talpa through several activities besides the daily church session, such as singing, pilgrimages, and fireworks.
Typically the two encompassed weekends offer activities for all ages: artistic and cultural events; bands and dancing; and rides for the kids. All of the events will be held in the La Penita plaza. There are games of chance, delicious food for sale, and of course, plenty of cold beer. The almost daily parades down the main avenida that terminate at the church include the faithful, children, and floats. It’s exciting to see such family pride and commitment to beliefs. The bands and entertainment are provided by the government, or at least the town managers- what a great way to keep positive voter support.
Although the Patron saint festival is much more secular than fifty years ago, it is still a significant event for this rural community. This eleven day festival reminds me of the county fairs that are common north of the border. The children are excited and the whole family is having fun either watching or participating in the evening activities.
The Saturday evening bands and fireworks are hugely popular! Due to La Penita’s ties to ranching, the Sundays will have some type of horseback event. For 2018, there is horse/mule racing scheduled. To keep the Sunday activities family oriented, there is live music and lots of beer.
Not to overlook another secular special day, Mother’s Day always falls within the eleven day festival; after all, Mary is the ultimate mom.
Whether you go to church is optional but checking out at least a couple of the events is a great way to spend a summer evening. There are large banners spanning the La Penita main street that lists times for the key events. The evening sounds of bands playing in the town square for all to dance is so vibrant and fun!
