Laura Mendoza Recalls La Lecherita's Santa Cruz Carnival Origins
Laura Mendoza, who has embodied the beloved La Lecherita character at the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival for over 40 years, recently revealed the origins of her tribute to traditional milkmaids.
The Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival is famous for its rich culture and festive spirit. Many of its characters are more than just costumes; they are true symbols that people remember and cherish. One such character is La Lecherita (The Milkmaid), brought to life for over 40 years by Laura Mendoza, who recently spoke about how the character began. La Radio Canaria reported that Mendoza recalled how she created one of the most beloved figures of the local festival.
La Lecherita started as a personal tribute, but over the years, it grew into a symbol that many generations have come to share. When Laura Mendoza was 25, she decided to create the character for a clear reason: to honour the women, including her own mother, who delivered fresh milk door-to-door when she was a child. She made this decision just before Carnival, starting a 42-year journey with the celebration.
The very next day, Mendoza went to the Nuestra Señora de África market in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. There, she bought the special items she still uses today: a basket and two milk containers. These items hold great sentimental value and have been part of countless Carnivals, helping to strengthen the bond between the character, its creator, and the public. Radio Canaria has pointed out how long-lasting this character is, noting its importance in keeping the memory of those milkmaids alive.
La Lecherita is more than just a costume; she represents a deeper meaning of Carnival, going beyond just a show. She connects us to the past, shows local identity, and reminds us how important old stories and traditional jobs are. The emotion Laura Mendoza shows when she talks about her character and its items highlights how Carnival can carry history, connect people, and preserve culture. Her character proves that the festival is also a place for feelings and shared memories.