Flores de Mayo, Spanish for ‘Flowers of May’, is a festival that was picked up by the Spaniards when they colonized the Philippines. The festival is in honour of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and lasts for the entire month.
Small marigold plants that had yet to bloom were placed around the perimeter of the lobby, on the tables, as well as on the windowsills. The choice of the marigold was for Mother’s Day, which is on the 11th. Symbolically, the reason for the flowers being set out that had not yet bloomed were due to the nature of the festival, which is to welcome spring and all of the beauty that it brings.
The opening ceremonies in Town Hall occurred at around 11 in the morning on May 3rd, and Father John from the St. Gabriel Parish led the opening prayer. “Eventually, the snow will melt,” Father John said, which caused laughter to erupt from the crowd, “and then there will be flowers.”
The Golden Generation Dance group, comprised of women aged 70 and up, began the event with a dance entitled ‘Aloha’. Donned in lei’s (long necklaces made of flowers) and grass skirts, the graceful women entertained the crowd. Guests were able to see a Parade of Princesses, cultural dances, and participate in Filipino games as well.
In Chestermere, the 4th largest population of people is made up of Filipino people. Due to this, it was suggested that a Filipino-inspired event could be held to the inclusion committee at Town Hall. “These types of events, and this event in particular, is about bringing cultural awareness to the community,” Says Anna Bata, who was part of the organizing committee, “we would be happy to hold more events like this for cultures that exist in Chestermere that would like to be showcased.”
Last year, the Chestermere Community Services organized a Diwali festival. This is an ancient Hindu festival and its name translates to ‘Festival of Lights’, which is held every Autumn.
If you have a culture in mind that you would like to have showcased in the community, please contact either Danielle Fermin at dfermin@chestermere.ca, or Anna Bata at abata@chestermere.ca.
