Dia de la Candelaria February 2nd

Guess who got a baby in their bread on Jan 6th (If you look back in the posts here, you will find one on the Three Kings Day - Dia de los Reyes) . This is a custom here and this year I have ordered 40 tamales as I can not make them. We will have a party tonight with all our friends and eat tamales, beans and drink tequila and beer. It's like a warm up for my Birthday Party :) It should be a lot of fun. So Happy Dia de la Candelaria to all of you, and take down your Christmas decorations!

In a country that loves its celebrations, the observance of Candlemas, February 2, is the official closure to the Mexican holiday season. After the family gathering, it’s time to take down all the Christmas décor and welcome the spring season. It is also ‘payback day’ for those who found a figure in their portion of the Day of Kings cake (January 6): this person is obligated to host a party of atole and tamales for all their family and friends. The Mexican celebration of Día de la Candelaria is an acknowledgement of both the European and prehispanic traditions, as tamales were used as offerings to the god of water, Tláloc, to ensure abundant rains for a plentiful harvest.

In a country that loves its celebrations, the observance of Candlemas, February 2, is the official closure to the Mexican holiday season. After the family gathering, it’s time to take down all the Christmas décor and welcome the spring season. It is also ‘payback day’ for those who found a figure in their portion of the Day of Kings cake (January 6): this person is obligated to host a party of atole and tamales for all their family and friends. The Mexican celebration of Día de la Candelaria is an acknowledgement of both the European and prehispanic traditions, as tamales were used as offerings to the god of water, Tláloc, to ensure abundant rains for a plentiful harvest.

Nativity scene; on January 6th, King's Day, the Christ child is brought presents from the Magi; and on February 2nd, the icon is dressed in fine clothes and presented in the church.

Other cultures around the world also take note of February 2nd as it marks the point between the winter solstice and spring equinox. This date is regarded as a superstitious day in various cultures. In many places it is traditionally a time to prepare the earth for spring planting. In the United States February 2 is observed as groundhog day- with the groundhog’s shadow predicting the arrival of spring. Even if the groundhog sees his shadow, there is still a long winter ahead. On needs to remember that these traditional parties originated before North America had the Super Bowl as a reason to party with friends during the worst of winter. But in Mexico, the mid-winter party is “Día de la Candelaria” (Day of the Candles), a celebration based on religious influences, pagan traditions and weather superstitions that celebrates spring’s arrival.

Thanks to Jaltembasol.com for story on Dia de la Candelaria.

First full day back in Mexico

Well it's the first full day being back in Mexico and we are enjoying every minute of it. Yesterday was long, we didn't sleep much then up early for the airport and travel most of the day. Got in to Puerto Vallarta at 5pm and Dalia, Miguel, Alajandro, Alexis (Miguel's brother)and Big Alejandro were all there to meet us. Drive to Guayabitos. Unpack, go for dinner where we saw Barbara and Lyle and their friends from Alaska. Short visit with Angelica and family, then to bed.
Up today went to breakfast at Abel's Restaurant, back to Hotel, shopping for a bit of food down the Avendia. Saw Francois and Helen at their Hotel and had a visit then continued shopping. Picked up Two pork chops (smoked like ham) and a large chicken breast, fruit & vegies. Good enough until we go to La Penita tomorrow for Market Day. So back home, nap time, then up for some lunch and a swim. Computer and reading books. Then this evening probably visit with the family or play a game. Not bad for a first day :)