Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe in Mexico

Date: December 12th

History: The Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe celebrates the appearance of the Virgin Mary to Saint Juan Diego on the hill of Tepeyac near Mexico City in 1531. According to tradition, Mary, identified as the Mother of God and referred to as Our Lady of Guadalupe, appeared multiple times to Juan Diego and requested that a church be built in her honor on that site. The most famous miracle associated with these events is the image of Mary that was supernaturally imprinted on Juan Diego's cloak (tilma), which is still displayed in the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe today.

Traditions:

• Pilgrimages: Millions of people make pilgrimages to visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City, which houses Juan Diego's cloak with the image.
• Mañanitas: On the eve, believers sing "Las Mañanitas," a traditional Mexican birthday song, to honor the Virgin.
• Masses and Prayer: Special masses and prayer services take place both at the Basilica and at churches throughout Mexico.
• Dancing and Music: Indigenous dances and music are performed as acts of devotion and celebration.
• Offerings: People bring offerings like flowers, especially roses which play an important role in the miracle story.

What People Do:

• Attend special church services dedicated to Our Lady of Guadalupe.
• Many children are dressed in traditional indigenous clothing as a tribute to Juan Diego.
• Homes and streets are decorated with images, lights, and banners depicting Our Lady.
• Families often gather for meals and festivities after attending mass or visiting shrines dedicated to Mary.