La Migración Venezolana a la Florida Central: Un viaje de enriquecimiento cultural
As an attorney who has spent nearly two decades serving the Central Florida community, I well remember the excitement and challenges of leaving my own home in Puerto Rico to start anew here in Orlando. Seeing more Hispanic and Latino families move to our area fills me with pride and a sense of unity. In recent years, our community has welcomed a significant wave of Venezuelan immigrants, whose culture, resilience, and vitality have added a unique layer to the Central Florida landscape. These new neighbors from Venezuela have brought an energy that is reflected in everything from the flavors we taste to the festivals we celebrate together.
5 Ways Venezuelans Are Enriching Central Florida
Arepas & Venezuelan Cuisine
What It’s All About: The heart of Venezuelan cuisine are arepas, cachapas, delicious cornmeal empanadas filled with everything from shredded beef and cheese to avocado and black beans. Along with arepas, tequeños (cheese sticks wrapped in dough) and tamale-like hallacas, especially enjoyed during the Christmas holiday season are just a few of the staple dishes that have won over local palates. Where to Find Them: For authentic Venezuelan flavors, you can head to pastelitos chips in Poinciana where you’ll find tequeños, empanadas, pastelitos, El Arepazo in Orlando or El Pabellón in Kissimmee. These restaurants aren’t just places to eat, they’re hubs where locals and Venezuelans alike gather to savor flavors that remind them of home and listen to traditional music.
Venezuelan Music and Dance
What it’s all about: Music plays a very important role in the lives of Venezuelans, from the folk melodies of the joropo with its harp, maracas and cuatro, and of course the Gaita, traditional music from the State of Zulia, which together with its furro or furruco, drum, maraca and charrasca create a lively rhythm that is impossible to resist dancing to. The Gaita, a very lively and danceable music, is heard more during the Christmas season in December and among the most listened to is Cuando voy a Maracaibo. The lively rhythms of salsa also play and the king of Venezuelan salsa Oscar de Leon has taken the salsa rhythm all over the world. Where to Experience It: You can find nightclubs or restaurants that play live Venezuelan music and also performances by famous artists. Clubs in downtown Orlando, which often resonate with the rhythmic pulse of Venezuelan sounds. El Llano Grill, a place where apart from eating delicious traditional dishes you can also try the famous carne en vara. A nice place to dance Venezuelan rhythms and watch sports games such as Spanish baseball including Venezuelan teams.
Venezuelan Art and Crafts
What it’s about: Venezuelan artists bring incredible talent to Central Florida, with pieces that reflect the country’s stunning landscapes, indigenous heritage and cultural traditions. From jewelry to vibrant paintings, these artisans add a colorful touch to the local art scene. Where to find it: The Orlando Museum of Art frequently features Latin American exhibits, and local art markets and festivals showcase Venezuelan crafts. These events are a great way to discover handmade art and meet the artists themselves. Lake Eola in downtown Orlando features a statue of the Liberator Simon Bolivar, on his white horse.
Religious and Cultural Celebrations
What it’s all about: Venezuelan celebrations, especially at Christmas, are filled with traditions like elaborate nativity scenes and ‘Gaitas’ music. Many also celebrate “El Dia de la Chinita,” in honor of the Virgin of Chiquinquirá, a beloved figure in Venezuelan culture. Where to Experience It: Special masses and community gatherings are held at several local churches in Orlando and Kissimmee, often in Spanish, offering an immersive experience for all. Some neighborhoods even host processions, creating an authentic and festive atmosphere.
Entrepreneurial Spirit and Community
What It’s About: Venezuelans are bringing their entrepreneurial spirit to Central Florida, starting businesses ranging from food stands and restaurants to boutiques and technology services. Their resilience and creativity add much to our local business landscape. Where to Find It: Venezuelan-owned businesses are flourishing around Semoran Avenue in Orlando and throughout Kissimmee. Whether it’s a food stand serving arepas (Venezuelan food) or a boutique with Venezuelan fashion, these businesses represent the spirit and determination of the community.
How Venezuelan migration enriches Central Florida
The arrival of Venezuelan immigrants has enriched Central Florida in many ways. They not only contribute to our economy, but also to the culture of our community, filling our neighborhoods with the sounds, flavors, and customs that celebrate Venezuela’s vibrant heritage. By embracing and celebrating these contributions, Central Florida becomes a diverse mosaic, where each piece adds to the rich and inclusive spirit we are fortunate to share.
Whether you’re looking to try a new dish, experience traditional Venezuelan music, or join in on a festive tradition, Venezuelan culture in Central Florida is accessible and open to all. This growing community is a testament to the resilience and warmth of the Venezuelan people, and is a gift that makes Central Florida an even more exciting place to call home.
I know that when you’re in a new place, it can be hard to know who really has your back. If you ever need legal advice after an accident, whether it’s a car accident, a workplace accident, or a slip and fall, I want you to know that I’m here to help. My goal is to always provide you with the best guidance possible and make sure you feel supported every step of the way. And remember, there are absolutely no costs unless we win your case. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
