Do you know when Candlemas Day is? Well, it turns out that every February 2nd, this celebration is observed, and it has a pretty interesting history. It all originates because on that date, it is 40 days after the birth of Mary, and it is when the Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph took the Baby Jesus to the Temple to present Him to God, as tradition dictates.

The interesting thing is that the name 'Candelaria' comes from a scene in the Gospel: when Simeon, a righteous man, took the Baby Jesus in his arms and called Him 'Light to illuminate the nations.' That’s why the celebration begins with the blessing of lit candles. Since then, on February 2nd, the faithful process with these candles.

Now, in Mexico and among Mexican migrants in the United States, this celebration is a fascinating blend of Christian faith and pre-Hispanic traditions. The Aztec calendar also marked blessings of corn during this time, so people prepare tamales and atole to share with family. Additionally, many dress the images of Baby Jesus in different outfits—doctors, teachers, soccer players—and take them to church to be blessed to attract prosperity.

In Spain, especially in the Canary Islands, it is also significant. They say that in 1392, the Virgin of Candelaria appeared to two shepherds in Tenerife, and since then, devotion spread throughout America starting in the 16th century. Every year, a special parade is held before the President and the King, with festivities lasting several days. It’s truly a tradition that has traveled and evolved, don’t you think?