Watching traditional Mexican folk dancers, eating authentic Mexican food and making salsa for a salsa contest are how Northwestern Oklahoma State University students will celebrate Cinco de Mayo. Northwestern’s celebration is planned for May 2.
Starting at 11 a.m., Alma Folklorica will perform choreographed traditional Mexican dances in Herod Hall Auditorium. With bright, exquisite attire, these dancers will put on a great show using numerous props.
Pre-registration is required to compete in the salsa contest, and the deadline is Tuesday, April 30. Contestants are urged to make a mild salsa, which will be judged on consistency, appropriate heat level and taste. Salsa tasters can pay $1 to sample the salsa and vote.
The salsa contest will be held from 5-6 p.m. in the Student Center Ranger Room. Only the first 10 entries will be accepted. Salsa tasters are encouraged to cast a vote for “People’s Choice Award.” Contact Dr. Claudia Young, assistant professor of Spanish, at (580) 327-8464 or coyoung@nwosu.edu for a participation form.
The Cinco de Mayo dinner will be held in the Student Center Ranger Room from 7-9 p.m. El Maya is donating authentic Mexican food to adults for $5 and students for $3.
Cinco de Mayo is a holiday that celebrates the defeat of the French by Mexico at the Battle of Puebla. Mexican troops won the fight on May 5, 1862.
All events are open to the public.
This celebration is sponsored by the Spanish Club and the Hispanic American Leadership Organization. All proceeds will go toward the Spanish Scholarship Fund.
For more information contact sponsors Dr. Francisco Martinez, associate professor of Spanish, at (580) 327-8566 or fjmartinez@nwosu.edu or Young at (580) 327-8464 or coyoung@nwosu.edu.
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