For the eighth year in row Norteņo pioneer Ramon Ayala wants to help those who need some added cheer this Christmas.
Ayala, the Hermes Music Foundation and the City of Hidalgo will present the eighth annual Christmas Posada. The posada, which has become a local tradition, is a free event that invites the local community to enjoy food, live entertainment and a visit from Santa Claus.
Part of that tradition is the generosity extended toward impoverished children who will be able to receive one of 10,000 Christmas presents handed out Wednesday afternoon.
Families are encouraged to line up outside of the Ayala’s Hidalgo home on Texano Street where they will receive a ticket for the gift. Children 12 years and under qualify.
“In past years, we’ve had a very good response because there is a necessity in the community,” said Roman Pedraza, one of the event’s organizers. “Children with little to no means will have something to enjoy on this very important day. Many times their financial situation is hard but still have those dreams of receiving a gift of some sort.”
The event kicks off at 3 p.m. with a traditional Mass and re-enactment of the nativity scene. Tickets will be handed out at this time and will continue until 11 p.m., Pedraza said.
At 4 p.m. the entertainment begins. This year the posada welcomes Pablo Montero, Grupo Control, comedians Huarachin y Huarachon, La Traicion and Grupo Torrente, among others. Folks can also expect a special appearance by Maria Antonieta de las Nieves, otherwise known as La Chilindrina, one of the stars of the popular Mexican television show El Chavo del Ocho. Ramon Ayala y sus Bravos del Norte are also slated to perform.
“We can do what we can to help these children of the community,” Pedraza said. “To see (those children) smiling is the greatest reward and it helps ease the strain on mothers and fathers during the Christmas season.”
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8th Annual Ramon Ayala Christmas Posada
WHEN: Wednesday, 3 p.m.
WHERE: Ramon Ayala Residence, Texano Street (across from Hidalgo City Hall)
COST: FREE
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Miriam Ramirez covers features and entertainment for The Monitor. You can reach her at (956) 683-4468.
