This past Saturday, the Miami Marlins hosted their annual Cuban Heritage Day at LoanDepot Park, drawing thousands of attendees. The highlight of this year's event was the powerful performance of the “Himno de Bayamo” by Diana Fuentes. Other notable moments included the commemorative jersey honoring the centennial of Celia Cruz and the ceremonial first pitch thrown by journalist Gloria Ordaz and singer Leoni Torres. As announced by the Marlins, a portion of the ticket sales will support the Celia Cruz Foundation.
Cuban cuisine, vibrant music, and a sense of excitement filled the evening, according to a report by Telemundo 51, which particularly emphasized Fuentes' performance as a standout moment. “I felt a lump in my throat... It’s a profound emotion to sing my country's anthem... something I never did back home, to sing it here,” Fuentes expressed.
A user on social media exclaimed, “How thrilling! Even Perucho Figueredo wouldn’t have done it so beautifully!” Additionally, outside the stadium, Lucrecia & Celia Cruz All-Stars performed a concert, paying tribute to the immortal Queen of Salsa.
Gloria Ordaz, reflecting on her experience of throwing the first pitch, shared, “The first thing that came to mind was the Cuban flag. The aroma of coffee, croquetas... all of it takes me back to my homeland.”
In a triumphant game, the home team secured a victory over the Rays with a score of 9 to 4, marking the start of the so-called Citrus Series.
Cuban Heritage Day Highlights
What was the highlight of the Cuban Heritage Day celebration?
The highlight was Diana Fuentes' stirring rendition of the “Himno de Bayamo,” which captivated the audience.
How are the Miami Marlins supporting the Celia Cruz Foundation?
A portion of the ticket sales from the event will benefit the Celia Cruz Foundation.
Who threw the ceremonial first pitch at the event?
Journalist Gloria Ordaz and singer Leoni Torres had the honor of throwing the first pitch.