Candlemas Day

Candlemas Day (Candelaria), nation- wide traditional celebration, 40 days after Christmas, is partly religious and partly pre- Hispanic.

An old Christian festival that celebrates the birth of Jesus and the midpoint of winter which is halfway between the shortest day and the spring equinox, is characterized by candle- light processions to the local churches for services after which there are big parties with family, friends and loved ones.

Colorful parades, dances and festivities mark the celebrations of this day. People carry representations of Baby Jesus to church where special masses are held, markets and fiestas in the streets and important bullfights at the Plaza de Toros Monumental.

A chosen member of each family hosts a party, offering tasty tamales and atole (a beverage made from corn).

Some regions which can afford, also stage a bullfight.

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Contact Information

Candlemas Day
22nd Floor, Insurgentes sur 800, Colonia del Valle
03100 Mexico City

Tel. +5215687056
contact@visitmexico.com
http://www.visitmexico.com