A Visit to the Grease Pole Festival
The 37th Annual Grease Pole Festival wrapped up yesterday with one of the most unusual contests that I have ever seen. A spirited display of bravado culminated in a fiery final race where one team managed to capture the prize as well as the crowd's admiration. Imagine a combination of The Encierro (Running with the Bulls) and La Tomatina (Celebratory Tomato Fighting).
Hundreds and hundreds of people cheered on their favorite teams as they shimmied up and over one another to reach the top of what looked like a greased electric pole. And the only mud slinging that day occurred took place around the base of the pole where everyone in sight was covered from head to toe. Not only was the community park jam-packed with onlookers, the side streets were also lined with countless fans looking on.
The contest started at 5:00pm and only lasted about forty minutes, but in that time there was an all-out battle that took place. Afterwards the winning team members were hoisted on top of shoulders and carried through the crowd announcing the great victory for all to see. It was then that the live salsa, regeaton, merengue and bachata music sounded off and the revelry ensued. Between the grilled chicken and rice, the beer tent and the music, I would have to say that the Grease Pole Festival (area's oldest Puerto Rican festival) is worth paying a visit. What amazed me was that Sunday was just one of the three days that this festival was held on. Unfortunately those who missed it will have to wait until next July to attend - in the meantime just enjoy the rest of Buffalo's awesome events... seems like there is a fun one just about every weekend of the year.
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