Santa Ana Celebrates Mexico’s World Cup Victory with Vibrant Street Parties

Brenda Jaimes navigated a jubilant crowd in downtown Santa Ana, pausing on Fourth Street to call attention to herself with a shout of, “Me! Me!” Hours before, Mexico had secured a thrilling 1-0 World Cup win against South Korea. Like thousands of others, Jaimes, a 22-year-old resident, had gathered at various local bars and restaurants to witness the victory before spilling onto the streets to celebrate.

Fans filled the air with horn blasts and the sound of noisemakers, chanting “México!” and “¡Sí se puede!” Flags were everywhere — waved from banners, painted on cheeks, and boldly displayed on Jaimes’ tube top. People danced on the backs of trucks, reveling in collective joy. An Orange County Fire Authority truck passed, its flashing sirens drawing cheers, as drivers cruised down Fourth Street, exchanging high-fives and turning cars into impromptu dance platforms.

Seeking a memorable experience, Jaimes lay in the arms of men wearing green Mexico jerseys. On a count of three, they launched her into the air, and she landed back in laughter. Similar scenes played out across Southern California from Koreatown to Huntington Park, in any area with a significant Latino population. Such jubilant gatherings are a tradition whenever Mexico wins in soccer, but the celebration was especially pronounced in Santa Ana this time.

A year before, the atmosphere on Fourth Street was starkly different. The city had been gripped by fear due to federal immigration raids. The National Guard had even set up blockades nearby. On this night, the fear was replaced with exuberance.

This here is the antithesis of the raids last year, said Sandra De Anda, sporting a Tigres jersey and waving a South Korea flag. She, along with many others, had previously protested against ICE and National Guard actions. They continued to fight for justice through the Orange County Rapid Response Network.

Jaimes echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of celebrating after a challenging year. “We don’t care what Trump says. This celebration is real,” she asserted.

Another woman joined the airborne revelry as Jaimes encouraged others to participate in the joyous event. Meanwhile, I engaged with the celebration by tapping cars, my hands blackened with soot.

Support for Mexico’s team extends beyond soccer; it symbolizes resilience. Many Mexican Americans find these victories a source of pride, inviting others to join in support, despite political tensions. Even as politics intertwine with sports, the community remains undeterred.

Sydney Tran, a passerby in a packed Honda Civic, witnessed the vibrant celebrations. Despite being Vietnamese, Tran appreciated the joy around her. “It’s wonderful to see my Mexican friends happy,” she exclaimed.

The party persisted well into the night. Restaurants stayed open late, hosting lines of eager patrons, while impromptu sidewalk dance parties unfolded. The police presence, stark during past protests, was notably absent. Despite the reality of looming challenges both on and off the field, this moment of celebration provided a much-needed reprieve and a hope for brighter days.