Our Lady of Guadalupe Day
December 12
by Tara A. Spears
In some towns there have been processions that follow the altar of the Virgin through the streets, with children dressed as Mary or the Indian Juan Diego. Home decorations include a shrine to the Virgin and range from simple to elaborate, with candles, flowers, and other individual touches.
This holiday is a prelude to Las Posadas, which take place during the nine days leading up to Christmas. Both offer a chance for vacationers to become part of a generous spirit of community celebration, where people with few material advantages have much to give. Participation in these festivities, usually centered at the local church, is an unexpectedly rich bonus beyond the beach.
The ubiquitous image- seen all over Mexico- appears as statues, tattoos, articles of clothing, jewelry and art, is that of a woman standing alone, atop a crescent moon and encircled by rays of the sun. Celebrations in her honor have been held annually for over 400 years on December12th. Guadalupe Day is an important festival for the Mexicans – it is a time when the Mexican Catholics celebrate their religious and cultural identity and to offer thanks to their patron saint, Our Lady of Guadalupe.
Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebrations at the Basilica in Mexico City
Our Lady of Guadalupe Day December 12 is one the biggest holiday celebrations in Mexico and no where is it celebrated more than at the Basilica in Mexico City.
You can easily get there by bus, underground or taxi. As there are millions of visitors – literally – the streets are closed so you will be let off a walking distance away. Follow the crowds and have a great time.
You will get to see the original Talpa in the new Basilica. Moving sidewalks allow visitors to briefly see the original picture.
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