Noche de Velitas: A Colombian Celebration Lights Up Long Island

Every December 7th, the vibrant Colombian tradition of Noche de Velitas comes to life as families and friends gather, illuminating their homes and businesses with candles, symbolizing wishes of hope and love for the holiday season.

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Luisa Roman, a proud member of Latina Moms Connect (LMC) and head of the LMC Velitas planning committee shared that bringing this cherished childhood memory to her Long Island community was a dream come true. As a Long Island resident, Luisa believes sharing a piece of her homeland is a gift, emphasizing the importance of celebrating diverse traditions and cultures within the community.

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The evening was a true coming together of community members. Generous sponsors contributed to a delightful array of Colombian delicacies, including empanadas, buñuelos, natilla, and hot chocolate. DJ John G from Long Island's station, La Fiesta, kept the celebration alive with memorable hits throughout the night. Raffle prizes, all donated by sponsors, were a big hit with attendees. All funds raised will help ensure more cultural events and activities by LMC.

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The festivities kicked off with a spirited performance by Ana Valentina Ortiz Jiménez, and Reina Juvenil of the Carnaval of Barranquilla NY. The crowd was then transported to Colombia as the room filled with the sounds of live instruments, courtesy of the 2023 Reina of Carnaval, Stephanie Sandoval y el Grupo de Millo, captivating everyone present. The night culminated with attendees gathering outdoors for the lighting of luminaries, marking the official start of the holiday season.

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For Sophia Sanchez, attending Velitas with her mom made her feel closer to her heritage. Sophia, whose grandfather was born in Colombia, expressed that participating in Velitas was a first for her and she eagerly looked forward to sharing her experience with her grandfather.

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The well-attended event drew notable figures such as Town of Babylon Supervisor Rich Shaffer, the first Latina member of Patchogue Village Board, Lizbeth Carillo, as well as NY State Assemblymember Kimberly Jean Pierre, and Suffolk County Legislator Jason Richberg.