The 12th of December is one of Mexico’s most important religious and cultural celebrations, it is the Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The day celebrates the appearance of the Virgin to Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin in 1531 on a hill of Tepeyac near Mexico City.
Throughout Mexico there are numerous festivities and pilgrimages with the most famous being the pilgrimage to the Basilica of Guadelupe of Mexico City, which houses the “tilma” (robe) worn by Juan Diego. History recalls that after Juan Diego saw the Virgin her image miraculously appeared on his robe and has remained ever since.
Puerto Vallarta is no exception and also celebrates this event. On the night of the 11th of December many groups of devotees organise processions and walk from the outskirts of the town towards the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The processions are usually made up civic groups, each with it’s own parade truck, music and decoration. The processions finally enter the church doors and circulate in front of the altar before leaving the side door. After the processions there is a midnight mass, and for those unable to enter the church, a large screen projector ouside shows live images from inside the church.
Throughout the night the main square of Puerto Vallarta is packed with thousands of locals and tourists enjoying this tradition. As always, the atmosphere is lively and friendly and groups of families of all ages watch the numerous parades work their way down the main avenue. It is also a great time to enjoy the variety of street foods available throughout downtown.
If you’re planning to vacation in Puerto Vallarta during this time of the year be sure not to miss these great festivities.
©Jamie B. R. Robinson 2008
©Jamie B. R. Robinson 2008
©Jamie B. R. Robinson 2008
©Jamie B. R. Robinson 2008