The celebration of Día de la Candelaria is one of the most deeply rooted Catholic traditions in Mexico. It is celebrated nationwide on February 2nd in honor of the Virgin of Candlemas, and its origins date back to the 10th century in Tenerife, Spain.

When this festivity was brought to Mexico, as with many other traditions, a blend occurred between Indigenous and Spanish cultures. The result was very characteristic cultural traits that distinguish it from celebrations held in other parts of the world.

For example, February 2nd coincides with what used to be one of the most important ritual days in the Mexica (Aztec) calendar, during which offerings were made to the “tlaloques,” the name of the mythological helpers of the god Tlaloc(the Rain God) who were responsible for scattering rain over the earth. 

In these offerings, corn played a leading role, which is why to this day the celebration includes tamales as one of the indispensable elements in the celebration of Día de la Candelaria.

This festivity is related to Día de Reyes (Three Kings Day) because the people who found the “muñequito” (little plastic baby figure) hidden inside the Rosca de Reyes (King’s Cake) are responsible for buying the tamales for this celebration.

Although this tradition is celebrated throughout the country, there are places in Mexico where it is celebrated with greater enthusiasm, such as Tlacotalpan, where the Virgin is carried on a boat parade along the river amidst huapango music and the sones (folk rhythms) interpreted by jaranero musicians.