Overview
- In Mexico City’s Xochimilco, large crowds brought Niño Dios images for blessings during outdoor services, reflecting core rites of candle blessing and presentation.
- The tamaliza custom tied to finding the figurine in the Jan. 6 Rosca de Reyes fueled public events, with Venustiano Carranza’s Tamal and Atole Fair drawing about 15,000 attendees, according to organizers.
- Mexico’s Feb. 2 day off this year resulted from moving Constitution Day to the first Monday of February rather than from Candlemas itself.
- In Puno, Peru, the UNESCO-recognized Virgen de la Candelaria festival held its central mass and a rainy procession, and continued dance competitions featuring large contingents of performers.
- In California’s Coachella Valley, some small vendors reported slower Candlemas tamal sales due to a heightened migration-related security climate.