
The sociologist and historian from the Acatlán Higher Studies Faculty, Arturo Cardoso states that the Candelaria Day in Mexico is a syncretism that involves pre-Hispanic traditions enriched by elements from the catholic and even the Jewish cultures.Īt the beginning of the 20 th Century, celebrating baby Jesus started gaining great popularity, probably due to the custom of dressing him with different attires. This time of abundance allowed people to savor the delicious tamales, prepared with corn dough and some other ingredients, like chicken, pork, or beef meat. As February started, the corn harvest was collected to prepare all kinds of Mexican typical dishes in fact, this grain has always been the cornerstone of this country’s feeding supply. Origin of the Candelaria Dayĭuring the viceroyalty period in Mexico, the celebration of Candelaria Day matched the beginning of the harvest. In appreciation for her son’s arrival, who came to the world lighting it up like a candle or a candela (in Spanish)… Therefore, therefore this celebration’s name. It is said that 40 days after Christmas, on February 2, the virgin went to church to purify herself, and to introduce baby Jesus to the priests. This is an easy-to-enjoy tradition, but… Do you know where does it come from? Meaning of the Candelaria Day The rosca de reyes’ trick is that inside it hides small baby figurines, which represent baby Jesus this way, those who find one of these figurines in their slice, are committed to buying tamales for everyone present, in order to enjoy during the Candelaria Day, which is celebrated on February 2. Relatives and friends get to choose which section of the cake they’ll cut, to savor accompanied by a cup of hot chocolate, coffee, or milk. On the night of January 5, the Three Wise Men visit children to bring them gifts while they sleep, therefore on January 6, with the kids’ happiness, families celebrate with a slice of this dessert. This cake is savored at every home in the country, specifically on January 6. It is enough to have participated in a reunion where the traditional “ rosca de reyes” (ring-shaped cake) was cut. To enjoy the Mexican tradition of Candelaria Day, you don’t have to be a history expert. This festivity has been celebrated in Mexico for generations, and it’s a moment that brings families and friends together to enjoy this country’s typical culinary delights, but do you know what is Candelaria Day about? February 2nd, Candelaria Day
