The annual Mexican Independence Day Celebration held Friday is a longstanding tradition at French Camp Elementary School.

More than just culturally, the event at the Manteca Unified’s oldest school site once again involved the community as a whole.

“I look forward every year to our Mexican Independence Day Celebration,” Principal Rene Knapp said.

She credits the efforts of the various organizers, including Martha Rosas, who is a classified employee at the school, along with Nancy Rosas, Eduardo Palacios, and members of the Parent Brigade, for their hard-working concerted efforts.

“We also had teachers helping out our students with the cultural dances,” Knapp said.

This fiesta-friendly holiday recognizes Sept. 16 as Mexico’s declaration of independence from Spain in 1810.

The day is celebrated with national pride, parades, mariachi performances, and traditional foods.

At French Camp, Mexican Independence Day Celebration has been a tradition for over 15 years – it continues to be one of the most anticipated cultural events, according to Knapp.

“This is a wonderful time for our community to celebrate its diversity and cultural pride,” she added.

This celebration, in addition, involves all students regardless of ethnicity.

Knapp applauded all those involved.