AURORA—Parish festivals at St. Rita of Cascia and St. Therese of Jesus drew around 4,000 people to celebrate community and light competition on Aug. 14. Mild temperatures and cloudy skies helped both outdoor events run smoothly. 

 

St. Rita of Cascia Parish held a Gran Kermes, a traditional Mexican festival and fundraiser featuring games. The Kermes started in the early morning and went into the evening. 

 

“Last year we had our Kermes back after (the) pandemic. It was (as) successful as it was this year. This year we had more people being part of this event,” said Father Oscar Cortés, the parish pastor.

 

The event included painting classes, lotería and other traditional Mexican games, Mexican food, Mexican bands, traditional dancing and soccer tournaments for both children and teenagers. 

 

“Everything is beautiful,” first-time attendee Andrés Simanca said of the St. Rita of Cascia event. 

 

St. Therese of Jesus Parish’s festival, though a few hours shorter, also featured games and raffles, Mexican  food and music by groups including “Los Gatilleros del Norte” and “Dinamita.”

 

Father Darwin Flores, parochial administrator at St. Therese of Jesus, said the event highlighted “the unity of the parochial community — doing the hard work and enjoying the activity for our parish.”

 

Funds raised during both events will help the parishes with their expenses and budgets.