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Artwork, handmade crafts, and out of town creatives lined the courtyard of DeLeon Plaza on Saturday during the 2nd Annual Hasta La Huesos, a hispanic heritage festival that aims to bring together artists from all over the state for one celebration of the culture. (Katie Steinhauer/Victoria Advocate)
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In honor of the late Brother to Victoria, Gary Moses, the festival set up a community ofrenda in memory of the unofficial mayor at DeLeon Plaza on Saturday. (Katie Steinhauer/Victoria Advocate)
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At 26, Victoria artist Elias Rodriguez is turning a personal dream into a celebration of culture, creativity and community — one he hopes will become a lasting tradition in his hometown.
That vision came to life Saturday as 62 vendors from across Texas filled DeLeon Plaza for the second annual Hasta La Huesos festival, showcasing everything from traditional Hispanic folk art to contemporary artwork and handcrafted clothing.
Organized by Rodriguez in partnership with the Viva Texas Film Festival, the event was more than an opportunity for artists to sell their work. It was a celebration of the personal stories, cultural identities and passion behind their creations.
“When we came up with that name, we wanted to try to connect it with the artists and their crafts,” Rodriguez said. “Basically trying to say that each craft, each artist, it’s who we are, and it’s down to our souls. Our craft is a piece of us, especially when people leave here with a piece of artwork or craft.”
Rodriguez, whose artistic work includes photography and pieces incorporating automotive paint, said the festival’s name reflects the deep connection artists have with their craft.
This year’s festival attracted vendors from throughout the Crossroads and as far away as Brenham, offering visitors a mix of traditional and contemporary artistic styles.
Displays ranged from Hispanic folk art to urban mural-inspired pieces and handmade garments. Food trucks served festivalgoers while DJ Guero provided music throughout the event.
Rodriguez said the festival is intended to bring people together through art while highlighting the cultural traditions that connect communities.
“I want people to take away from this festival the culture, but primarily the people,” Rodriguez said. “We have folks that come in from all over for this event. HLH brings people from all different cultures to celebrate something that is for everyone. With our theme in Dia De Los Muertos this year, it’s also a holiday that could mean a lot to everyone.”
In recognition of Día de los Muertos, the festival featured a public ofrenda, or memorial altar, on the DeLeon Plaza stage honoring the late Gary Moses, a longtime Victoria community figure known for his involvement in local events and his welcoming spirit.
Rodriguez said remembering Moses was an important part of creating the festival and something he hopes to continue each year.
“When we started creating this event, I wanted to incorporate something special for him for every year to remember him for all the things he did for the community,” Rodriguez said. “I know that if he was here with us today, this would definitely be something he would be loving altogether.”
Beyond celebrating art and heritage, Rodriguez hopes Hasta La Huesos will grow into an annual tradition that draws artists, performers and visitors from across Texas.
He envisions expanding the festival’s vendor participation, live entertainment and cultural programming while maintaining its emphasis on Hispanic heritage and community connections.
For Rodriguez, seeing the festival return for a second year represents the realization of a personal goal made possible through community support.
“Thank you to the community,” Rodriguez said. “Without the community, without Viva Texas, without Victoria in general, I don’t think this would have ever been possible. I’m thankful for everyone helping making this 26-year-old’s dream to have a festival come true.”
