Dixon celebrates Hispanic heritage with first-ever fest

DIXON - Grupo Alegria. It means "a group that is happy." The appropriately named dance troupe of traditional Mexican dancers from Sterling's Latin American Social Club delighted a crowd of Cinco de Mayo revelers Saturday in downtown Dixon.

People strolled Saturday through the closed-off half block of First Street between Hennepin and Galena avenues, enjoying traditional Mexican food, mariachi music, cold drinks and, of course, the dancers in their brightly colored dresses, who were periodically the center of attention.

The festivity in downtown Dixon marked the first time the Petunia City has held a Cinco de Mayo celebration.

"I think it should be continued next year. The girls were really excited," said Nora Rodriguez, director of the Grupo Alegria.

As the sun warmed up a semi-cloudy day downtown, ice cream was a fast seller outside of Salamandra, the downtown Mexican restaurant at the center of the celebration.

Owner of Salamandra, Juana Ayala, was delighted with the turnout. The Cinco de Mayo celebration was her brainchild. She spent much of the afternoon and evening serving tacos on the street in front of her restaurant.

"I feel it was important to do. I love all the people," said Ayala.

Daughter Karla Rivera said celebrating the day Mexico defeated an occupying French force at Pueblo, Mexico in 1862, in Dixon is more than just a reason to have an early summer party.

"This right now is because of the big Hispanic population here. You hear so many things in the news. We want people to know we have a good side," said Rivera. "We live in this country too and it is a good country."

Whether of Mexican descent or not, hundreds of people turned out for the celebration which lasted throughout the afternoon into the evening.

"It gives us a chance to show people some fun," said Rivera, adding that she was pleased with the larger-than-expected turnout.

While Sterling and Rock Falls have been recognized for their long history of a Hispanic population, Rivera said this was an opportunity to remind Dixon of its rich cultural tapestry.

"You may not see them every day on the streets, but Mexicans are working in the back of every kitchen in town," said Rivera.