Quito Colonial ChatterFirst Edition of Quito's #1 NewsletterWhat's Happening in Quito Now?Quito Colonial's best tour guide, Angel Rea, bid and was chosen, of course, as escort for this year's selection of girls running for Queen of Quito. Their busy schedule became his busy schedule.
How Do They Choose the Queen of the Fiestas in Quito?The colonial Fiestas de Quito - between now and November 26 - will introduce the emerging queen who will reign throughout the festivities and on until next year's selection.230 candidates competed...14 came out winners...now - on to the finals! All started preparing since October 16. November 27 the merriment begins with parades led by the queen on to bullfights...social activities...music...dancing in the street...the chivas...the food festival with yummy typical traditional dishes - all culminating on Founders Day, December 6. Judges choose the queen by how well she presents the founding of Quito on December 6, 1535.
Who Prepares Them?The foundation, Patronato San Jose - directed by the mayor's wife - takes charge.The queen must find a sponsor - a business entity - together with the mayor's wife. The sponsorship becomes a partnership fundraising event focusing on poverty beginning with the orphanages which are run by nuns. Together they must come up with projects for the foundation to be continued throughout her reign. All the while, the mayor takes charge of directing the city in social benefits utilizing Patronato San Jose for the benefit of the children in the streets, the elderly, the beggars and all the needy. And so...the fiestas are much more than merriment. They bring out the heart of Quito.
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