On December 12th, a float carrying an eight-person banda led a procession followed by dancers performing danza azteca through the roads of Avocado Heights. A large group of charros followed behind on their prancing horses— all to celebrate “La Guadalupana” and the day that many Mexican Catholics celebrate the feast in honor of the Virgin of Guadalupe.
Though Dia de Guadalupe processions happen all over LA County, Avocado Heights is special. Their celebration featured the quintessential Mexican Charreria tradition of horseback riding and cowboy culture that has found a lasting home in Avocado Heights. Many of the charros in the procession are part of the Avocado Heights Vaquer@s, a group of riders who advocate for the equestrian lifestyle that is deeply ingrained in the community.
The day commemorates the appearance of the Virgin to Juan Diego, an indigenous Aztec man who had converted to Christianity, on the hill of Tepeyac in Mexico in 1531. The tradition of celebration, rooted in Mexico, has become a big part of Los Angeles culture in many Mexican communities like Southeast LA and Boyle Heights.
The Avocado Heights parade begins and ends at the home of Guadalupe Gonzalez, resident of more than 20 years — but that’s just the beginning of the celebration. A mass is then held at the home, a buffet of food is laid out, horses and their riders dance near the stables, and the live music can be heard from blocks away…