By Carisa Biesecker

Despite its recent break-in, Estrella Tropical Latin Restaurant and Deli in Valrico has decided to continuing on with its celebration of the Sigue la Estrella Annual Christmas Parranda.

After shattering the front window of the restaurant, which opened in 2005, with concrete pieces of curb, vandals stole thousands of dollars worth of merchandise and equipment, but in spite of the tragedy, staff are keeping their heads held high.

Elizabeth Espinosa, managing partner says, "This occurrence will not affect any of our upcoming events or daily operations, and you can still expect to enjoy the same great food, music and family-friendly atmosphere."

Connecting with 20 area businesses with the expectation of more than 1,000 guests, the third annual event of the parranda is a celebrated recreation of the popular Puerto Rican tradition of Christmas caroling. Meaning "follow the star," the event's name was created by uniting Estrella Tropical, tropical star, and the North Star, associated with the birth of Jesus Christ. Taking place on Saturday, December 15 from 7 p.m.-12 Midnight, the event features live music performed by Cuatrista Alvin Medina, Trovador Felix Nieves Cotto and DJ "Speedy" Gonzalez of WMNF 88.5 FM. During the party, residents can participate in a toy drive, contests and raffles held to raise money and toys for the Hispanic Services Council based in Tampa and Plant City, which helps Hispanic families in need.

"Whatever money is raised through the raffle, Estrella Tropical will match that quantity as a donation to the Hispanic Services Council," adds Espinosa. Party goers will also have the opportunity for family photos and to enjoy the Christmas dishes of Puerto Rico. Last year, 500 residents were in attendance for the event.

Residents can attend the sing-a-long for $5, which includes a cancionero, or song book, while dinner is available for purchase at $10 per plate. VIP tickets are also available for purchase costing $20 each. "This event was started as a way to preserve the traditions that have been practiced in Puerto Rico for centuries and that tend to dissipate with the relocation of families to the United States," states Espinosa.