February 2 – Día de la Candelaria (Candlemas Day). This religious holiday marks the 40th day after the birth of Jesus. Special masses involve the blessing of seeds for fertility and candles, representing the light of the world.

In San Miguel, Candlelaria is the unofficial beginning of spring and it’s become famous for andthe plant flower sales held in Juarez Park. Dozens of vendors line the walkways of the park, selling everything imaginable for the garden. People stroll the paths planning the year’s plantings. Young boys with wheelbarrows scurry about, carrying bedding plants and bougainvilleas, terra cotta planters and potting soil, to the cars and trucks parked on the street. In San Miguel, Candlelaria is the unofficial beginning of spring.

Also on this night, Mexican families have a traditional party. Whatever family member got the baby doll in the Rosca de Reyes bread on January 6th has to provide tamales and atole for the family party tonight. Atole is a delicious hot cornstarch drink that’s a bit like drinking hot thin pudding. If you’d like to try it yourself, check out this delicious and really easy atole recipe.

Día de la Candelaria, or Candlemas Day, is celebrated on February 2 in Mexico. It commemorates the purification of the Virgin Mary and the presentation of Jesus Christ at the Temple. The day is marked by various traditions, including attending church services, where candles are blessed, and sharing tamales, a traditional dish that symbolizes community and togetherness. The celebration has roots in both pre-Hispanic customs and Catholic traditions, blending ancient practices with modern observances.