San Miguel de Allende, MEXICO
Alborada
The celebration first started in 1925 when factory workers of Fabrica La Aurora decided to resume this ancient tradition. It is one of the most anticipated events and the pyrotechnics are the most spectacular.
The festivity begins in Jardín Allende, where various music bands bring joy to attendees. Contingents of people arrive, carrying massive colored paper stars that evoke the Virgin of Light and carrying candles inside, symbolizing how they illuminated the processions when there was still no electricity. The ‘fight’ is represented by a show of fireworks and pyrotechnics that lasts more than an hour in the early morning.
The festival continues through the weekend with events such as concert of the Hermanos Aguscalientes, celebrations of the consumption of Mexican independence, the blessing of the horses, burn of the Castillos, entrance of the xúchiles, rodeo, bull fighting, and firework show in the evening.
La Alborada is one of the most important traditions, from colonial times to the present – the 100-year celebration of the patron saint San Miguel Arcángel.
- Hermanos Aguscalientes: traditional music with violin, guitar and congas
- the blessing of the horses: hundreds of riders amass at the Parroquía to receive a blessing from the high priest
- Castillos: fireworks consisting of papier-mâché dolls on tall pole
- Entrance of the xúchiles: a unique parade showing their native dances to offer “xúchiles”
- xúchiles: monumental offerings made with marigolds and a local flower called cucharilla