Experience Loteria in Downtown Brenham, Texas
Loteria: A Traditional Mexican Game loved by Many
If you grew up in Texas, you have likely heard of “Loteria.” A traditional Mexican game that has been played in households, with family and friends. Some call it “Mexican Bingo.” You have your good luck charm by your side and some dry beans to mark the spot on your card. Card after card gets called, and you may only need one or two more cards called before you yell out, “Loteria!’ or “Buena!” This is a childhood memory for me. Growing up and playing in the living room of my grandma’s house. It was a fun thing to do while spending time with family. Typically following a barbecue. The game is much more fun when you are lucky, but memories are made regardless. Sometimes there’s an eye roll when someone else wins before you do, but at the end of the day it’s all fun!
My Dad Tony Ramirez (left) helps me to call the cards, as we prepare to give a prize donated by his business, Top Floor Cars, Inc.
How it All Started
I never imagined that one day I would be the host of Loteria night in Downtown Brenham, but here I am. Calling the cards every second Thursday of the month. I have been doing this for two years and it has been such a fun experience. It all began when Zaira Carlos asked me if I would be open to hosting Loteria at 110 W. Main St. where their food truck “LaJefa Homestyle Birria” is located alongside popular cocktail bar, “Salud!” It sounded like a fun idea, so I agreed.
I created an even graphic, posted the event on social media, and within hours I had a great response. Local business owners offered to donate prizes. I remember the first time we played, the table was loaded with a variety of really amazing prizes. We had everything from gift baskets, to cakes and more. It was a blast! A line formed and within minutes every table was full of people hopeful to win, and ready to embrace the game. We played both newer and more classic Mexican music, while enjoying the delicious Birria specials from LaJefa food truck, and mouthwatering drinks from Salud!
Zaira and her team from LaJefa worked hard to cook their delicious meals, with their delicious Birria Tacos being a fan favorite. Danny and her team at Salud, crafted refreshing cocktails and mocktails for the crowd to enjoy while playing. It truly was a team effort.
Little did we know that this would become a regular thing. Initially, the game wasn’t going to be repeated every month, but after popular demand, we decided to hold the event consistently every second Thursday of the month.
The Flow of The Event
We all do our part to ensure a great experience for those attending the event. I am thankful for all the help that the community consistently offers. My family goes out of their way to help make sure that the game runs smoothly. My dad, Tony Ramirez even invested in a professional sound system because my little speaker and mic didn’t cut it for this size of an event. Not only that, but he even took it upon himself to DJ the background music while I call the cards. Raising and lowering the volume when necessary. Changing songs depending on what the crowd is vibing to. Sometimes you will hear classics like Los Tigres Del Norte, other times you might hear newer cumbias (that I don’t know the name of). That is how invested he is.
Attendance is Very Much Appreciated
I love to see my friends and family in the crowd playing. My mom loves the event so much, and I am so happy to see her and my sisters, cousins, aunts, and even sometimes my grandma.
I have also met so many frequent Loteria attendees. Several people come to almost every Loteria night, and it’s rare when they miss. Their attendance is much appreciated, and the people are the reason we have Loteria. Some people ask me, “Do you need to know Spanish to play?” and I assure them that anyone can play. Loteria cards are called out in both English and Spanish, and the game is fun for all.
My mom, Maritza Ramirez, enjoys a drink while playing Loteria
Guests enjoy food and drinks while playing the Traditional Loteria game in Downtown Brenham, Texas
Zaira Carlos stands with her beloved mother, Marilu Pelayo, AKA LaJefa. They both create delicious food made with love. Every dish is meticulously prepared, and is full of flavor.
Local Businesses help make Loteria a Success
Loteria Night in Downtown Brenham is a team effort. Salud and LaJefa strive to provide quality drinks and food, and we are all so grateful to receive wonderful prizes from neighboring local businesses. The prizes make the game so much more fun. You never know what to expect each month.
Guests enjoy some dancing throughout the night. Line dances are a favorite amongst the guests.
Dancing and Grito Contests
On busy nights, if the crowd is willing, we will do a Grito Contest. The Best grito is determined by the crowd, and the winner gets a prize. Sometimes we have dancers itching to get on the dance floor, and the best dancer (crowd choice) will get a prize. It is a lively night for all.
Want to join us for Loteria? We can’t wait to meet you!
Thinking of joining us for the next Loteria event? We hope you do! Feel free to bring a friend, or even come solo. People are welcoming, the atmosphere is lively, and who knows… you just might win a prize. Downtown Brenham has many wonderful businesses to visit before and after the event. If you are wanting to make a day trip, I am happy to recommend a number of places to go while you are in our neck of the woods. The best part of Loteria isn’t the game itself, it’s about the community, culture, and memories in the making! Life is too short to not have fun. See you soon!
-Carrina
