Issue date: 5/1/09 Section: Features

Media Credit: Jordan Bryan [Click to enlarge]

The joyous family occasion of Easter weekend has come and gone, and the not-so-awaited occasion of finals is approaching. The month of May, however, doesn't have to be a dreaded time since it also marks an important day for Hispanics everywhere.

Cinco de Mayo is a day dedicated to celebrating the Mexican defeat of the French in the battle at Puebla in 1862.

"This festival celebrates freedom and liberty and the cooperation of Mexicans and Americans," said Liliana Garcia, senior chemical engineering major and MSC Committee for the Awareness of Mexican American Culture chairwoman.

This day is often confused with the day Mexico gained its independence, which is Sept. 16, 1810.

"This was a very significant battle because the French army was much better equipped and outnumbered the Mexican army two to one," said Jose Chapa, junior entomology major and cultural director for MSC CAMAC.

The committee is marking this time with the annual Fiesta 505 celebration which will be from noon until 5 p.m. Monday at the Rudder Plaza.

"Fiesta 505 is created to provide a place for students to celebrate the event, and to invite those who are unfamiliar with Cinco de Mayo to learn more about this widely celebrated event," Garcia said.

This will be CAMAC's fifth year producing Fiesta 505 since its establishment in 1974.

"This year is more than just for Fiesta 505. It is one of the last major events that will take place at Rudder Fountain," said Raul Samano, junior animal science major and administration director for CAMAC. "We are certainly going to miss the MSC during the rebuilding stage."

The event is planned by student volunteers who are also members of CAMAC. The process welcomes other organizations to contribute.

"Booths will be sold for $20 to organizations. It is a great opportunity for a fundraiser," Chapa said.

Activities for the day include live performances from student organizations and elementary school students, along with food, contests and entertainment.

"We are looking to bring Ballet Fólklorico Celestial and Aggieland Mariachi," Samano said.

A jalapeño-eating contest is scheduled, as well as a clown and moon bounce for the kids.

"The best part has to be the elementary students' performances. They seem to enjoy themselves as much as the audience watching. It brings back memories from when we were their age doing the same thing," Chapa said.

Fiesta 505 seeks an audience of not just students, but the rest of the Bryan-College Station community.

"I enjoy doing face painting for the kids," Garcia said. "Last year, a boy asked me to draw a Spiderman on his face. It ended up looking nothing like Spiderman, but the boy was extremely pleased."

Last year, the event was at the Bush School and received about 300 people.

"This year, I expect to see a larger student audience since it's occurring at a more accessible place on campus. We're aiming for over 500 people," Garcia said.

CAMAC prepares in advance for this day by planning year-round.

"There is a year-long commitment from the cultural subcommittee of CAMAC. There are budgets and events to work on for Fiesta 505. The place for the event is the biggest part of the puzzle since there are different safety precautions that must be taken at different locations," Samano said.

The food served at Fiesta 505 includes fajitas, chicharones, aguas frescas, fruit cups and tacos.

CAMAC also hosts other events throughout the school year including Salsa Dance Night & Competition, Student Conference On Latino Affairs (SCOLA) and Mis Quince Años.

When and where
Noon to 5 p.m. Monday at Rudder Plaza.

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