Discover the vibrant artistry and cultural heartbeat of Loíza through the traditional craft of vejigante mask-making. Guided by master artisan Wilcelino “Celele” Pizarro and supported by trained local youth guides from the Heritage Tourism Program, you’ll carve, assemble, and paint your very own mask made from natural coconut husk—an iconic symbol of Loíza’s Afro-Puerto Rican identity.

This hands-on cultural immersion directly supports the Melodías de Esperanza Program, which provides music education and professional-level training for children and teens ages 4–18.

Come create, learn, connect—and walk away with your own handmade cultural masterpiece.

Date & Time

Saturday, November 22, 2025
9:00 AM – 12:30 PM

Exact google pin location will be shared once booked.

Hosted by Centro de Esperanza • Promoted by Amour Getaways

• Create your own traditional vejigante mask from coconut husk

• Learn the history, origins, and symbolism of vejigantes in Loíza’s culture

• Hands-on carving, assembling, and painting session with expert guidance

• Cultural interpretation from youth leaders in the Heritage Tourism Program

• Taste traditional Loíza cuisine surrounded by flamboyán trees and coconut palms

• Support community programs that promote youth development and cultural pride

• A memorable half-day experience ideal for families, creatives, schools, and groups

• Minimum age 12; under 16 must be with an adult

Effort Level

Easy
Light walking required through outdoor areas.

What to Bring

• Reusable water bottle

• Comfortable clothing (may get paint on)

• Hat or cap for sun

• Closed-toe shoes

Duration

3.5 hours (9:00 AM – 12:30 PM)

Sun Exposure

Approx. 45 minutes of mild sun exposure during portions of the activity.

Maximum Group Size

20 participants

All reservations are FINAL SALES. No refunds will be issued under any circumstances.

Full payment is required at the time of booking and must be completed using the payment options provided within the reservation system.

No refunds or rescheduling will be offered for cancellations made after the allowed period.

If any member of a reserved group does not attend on the scheduled date, no refund or alternate date will be provided.

Amour Getaways and Centro Esperanza, Inc. reserves the right to cancel the event in cases of dangerous weather conditions, unforeseen circumstances, or force majeure that prevent the event from taking place safely. In such cases, participants will be offered an alternative date from the scheduled calendar.

For group reservations, please contact Amour Getaways directly at Travel@AmourGetaways.com.

Each participant is responsible for reading and understanding the Cancellation Policy, what to bring, and how to properly prepare for the event. Centro Esperanza, Inc. is not responsible for any omissions of this information. No route modifications or refunds will be made as a result of such omissions.

Additional Information to Keep in Mind

• Reservations are required to participate in all events.

• A minimum of 10 participants is required for the mask-carving workshop. If the minimum is not reached, the activity will be rescheduled.

• Your spot is confirmed once the reservation process is completed in full.

• Participants must arrive 15 minutes before the event start time.

• The event is not currently adapted for wheelchair users. However, with advance notice and upon specific request, adjustments can be made to make the activity accessible to a wider audience.

• For safety reasons, the minimum age to participate in the workshop is 12 years old. Participants under 16 years must be accompanied by an adult.

• For school groups, there must be 1 adult chaperone for every 20 students.

• Sun protection is required, such as biodegradable sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, or a long-sleeve shirt.

• Service animals are welcome.

• Smoking, consumption of alcoholic beverages, and the use of inappropriate or offensive language are not permitted at Centro Esperanza.

• The carrying, possession, or use of weapons is strictly prohibited.

• The following types of clothing are strictly prohibited (including but not limited to): ripped shorts or pants, low-cut tops, miniskirts, tank tops, pajamas, swimwear, transparent clothing, or any other attire deemed inappropriate for Centro Esperanza.

• Centro Esperanza reserves the right of admission.

Welcome & Cultural Introduction
Begin your visit with a warm welcome from the artisan and youth guides. Learn about the history and symbolism of vejigantes—colorful figures that represent Loíza’s Afro-Puerto Rican heritage and festival traditions.

Hands-On Mask Creation
Work side-by-side with artisan Wilcelino “Celele” Pizarro to carve and assemble your coconut-husk mask using traditional techniques passed down through generations.

Painting & Decorating
Add color, design, and personal expression to your mask. Every brushstroke connects you deeper to the artistry and storytelling of Loíza’s people.

Cultural Immersion & Local Cuisine
Enjoy a traditional Loíza-style lunch prepared with local flavors. Hear from youth guides about the community programs your participation supports, including the Melodías de Esperanza music education initiative.

Closing Reflections
Take photos of your finished mask and share in a closing moment of gratitude with the group before taking your handmade creation home as a keepsake of your experience.

The workshop takes place outdoors on unpaved ground.

• It may not be fully accessible for wheelchairs, strollers, or mobility devices.

Accessibility adjustments can be arranged upon request.

Temperatures may range from warm to hot (80°F+).

Liability waivers are required. Adults sign upon arrival.

• Minors must have a waiver signed by a parent or guardian before participating.

Group discounts are available for groups of 20+, including:

• Schools

• Universities

• Community organizations

• Corporate teams

For group inquiries, contact Travel@AmourGetaways.com.