Mexican Traditions: El Dia de la Candelaria in Patzcuaro

Mexican traditions come alive in Patzcuaro, and this year is no exception:  El Dia de la Candelaria (Candlemas Day) was just celebrated February 2 – as it always is – and guests at Hotel Mansion Iturbe were here to enjoy and participate in the many related festivities, and witness the devotion of our Patzcuarenses.

Candlemas celebrations in Patzcuaro

The tradition of El Día de la Candelaria in Mexico goes back centuries.  Today, a small figure of the baby Jesus is placed in the Kings’ Ring cake.  Whoever finds it is blessed and must take it to the nearest church on February 2.  Tamales and atole are the typical treats served at the fiesta.

Candlemas celebrations in Patzcuaro

But the festivities have an important significance in the Catholic community and in the Purepecha (local indigenous) community.  In Patzcuaro, we can see how pre-Hispanic traditions have melded with those of Spain to create a unique festivity.

Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health in Patzcuaro on Candlemas Day

 

Candlemas Day in Mexico at the Basilica y Patzcuaro

El Dia de la Candelaria has its origins in Spain, in honor of la Virgen de la Candelaría, who appeared on the island of Tenerife – one of the Canary Islands – at the beginning of the 15th Century.

During the epoch of New Spain, ships were obliged to stop at the Canary Islands for weighing purposes, and there many of the customs of that area – including the adoration of la Virgen de la Candelaria – were carried on to the New Continent.

 Candlemas celebrations in Patzcuaro

*Text, pictures and video property of Hotel Mansión Iturbe.

We also invite you to check more articles in our blog, you will find useful information for your next trip to Patzcuaro. Here are some post that we suggest you to check:

Palm Sunday in Patzcuaro, the beginning of Holy Week 

Celebration of the Green Cross in Pátzcuaro

Festival of Corpus Christi in Patzcuaro

Hotel Mansion Iturbe
Portal Morelos 59
Plaza Vasco de Quiroga
61600 Patzcuaro, Michoacan
México

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