Celebrating Corn in Suchitoto
Maybe you haven´t thought much about corn lately. True, it has been in the news recently as a potential source of bio-fuel. And, yes, we read the name of its overly sweet derivative—high-fructose corn syrup—on nearly every package of processed food we buy. But, on average, we travelers to El Salvador probably have not thought much about corn, let alone set aside a time to celebrate it.

For the festival the eight Kings and Queens of Corn, elected from each of the municipality´s zones, dress in elaborate outfits decorated with corn.
Here in El Salvador, corn rules. Much of the national diet is based on products made from corn, and many farmers count on each year´s harvest to provide their family income. Not only are large swaths of land in this small country dedicated to its cultivation, but also tiny plots outside Salvadoran homes—wherever there is space. Stroll through any Salvadoran neighborhood and you will hear the rhythmic clapping sound of women making tortillas inside their homes. This simple crop is a cornerstone of Salvadoran life.
Combining both sacred and celebratory atmospheres, the Festival of Corn unites Suchitoto´s urban and rural communities which pay tribute to the corn harvest and to the many farmers who labor to bring the crop to Salvadoran tables. The day begins with a solemn procession through Suchitoto´s historic center. Among the many participants are the eight Kings and Queens of Corn, elected from each of the municipality´s zones. True to their honorary titles, the royalty dress themselves in elaborate outfits that are decorated with corn. Following the procession is a special Mass celebrated in Suchitoto´s iconic Santa Lucía Church.

For the festival the eight Kings and Queens of Corn, elected from each of the municipality´s zones, dress in elaborate outfits decorated with corn.
Suchitoto´s Festival of Corn reminds us all of the great importance of corn to this part of the world. And, certainly after participating in this event, you will never mindlessly munch on your popcorn the same way again.
text & photos by Amber Lucero-Criswel lamberlucerocriswell@hotmail.com