SPRINGFIELD- Wearing Converse sneakers with the design of the Puerto Rican flag Harry Isaac, of Springfield, stood on the corner of Main and Bridge streets to cheer on marchers during the Puerto Rican Parade Sunday.

"I'm always supportive of events that celebrate Puerto Rican culture," Isaac said. "I think it's great that the parade is back in Springfield. I went to it when it was moved to West Springfield, but this is where it should be held."

The Puerto Rican parade and festival organized by the Puerto Rican Cultural center were held at the Eastern States Exposition grounds in West Springfield last year.

This year the festival was held in West Springfield Saturday and Sunday, but the parade came back to Springfield thanks to the efforts of Ward 1 CIty Councilor Zaida Luna.

"I am very happy with the turnout. I'm glad so many groups were able to march and so many people came out to support us," she said.

The parade included typical Puerto Rican music and dancing as well as local civic organizations.The fire and police departments as well as the sheriffs department also matched in the parade.

Jenna Acevedo, 8, of Springfield came to the watch the parade with her grandfather. Standing near the intersection of Main and Liberty streets she cheered on the different groups.

"I really like the fire trucks," she said.

Spectator Heraclio Santiago, a resident of Springfield for 60 years, enjoyed the event.



"It was well done and I appreciate the effort of Zaida Luna in making this possible," he said.



Santiago was an organizer for the original Puerto Rican parade held more than 20 years ago.



"We didn't have the same support back then, but we still managed to put on a parade," he said. "I hope that Latin Americans of all backgrounds not just Puerto Ricans were able to enjoy the parade."

While last year’s parade was hampered by rain, the weather was perfect for this year's event.

"Everything went smoothly, there were no incidents and people had a great time," Luna said. " I hope we can keep the parade in Springfield permanently, because that's what people want."