Every December 12 in the United States and Mexico on Day of the Virgin of Guadalupein which mMillions of faithful visit the “Morenita del Tepeyac” and offer her a night of songs.

The celebration begins on December 11 at 18:45 with the popular serenade to the Virgin of Guadalupe, followed by various tributes until midnight sung by the traditional “Mornings”.

Throughout the early morning and until 8.00 pm on December 12, a series of masses continues, the most important of which is the one dedicated to the Celebration and Blessing of the Roses.

Origin of the Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe

The origin of the Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe dates back to December 12, 1531, when the Virgin Mary appeared to Juan Diego for the fourth time in Tepeyac Hilla very representative place for today’s Catholics.

According to popular traditions, Juan Diego, originally from Cuautitlán, sought help for his uncle, who was ill. The Virgin of Guadalupe presented herself to the humble man next to the “Pocito” and told him that her relative was already healthy.

He had already asked Juan Diego three times to take Bishop Fray Juan de Zumárraga to the hill as he wanted a temple built. However, he didn’t want to go because his uncle was seriously ill.

After the Virgin of Guadalupe appeared to him the fourth time and told him that his uncle was well, the man climbed to the top of the cTepeyac error.

“La Guadalupana” had asked her to go to the same place to pick some roses, which weren’t in bloom at the time. They were brought in Juan Diego’s alb before the bishop and at the time of delivery, the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe was revealed.

In 1667 the Pope Clement IX established December 12 as a feast in honor of the Virgin of Guadalupe. In 1824, Congress declared that day a national holiday.

How is the Feast of the Virgin of Guadalupe celebrated?

On the day of the Feast of Guadalupe, millions of Mexicans and pilgrims gather with songs and offerings in front of the altar of the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, singing las mañanitas to the Virgin.

In the houses rosaries are recited and dances are performed to honor the Morena Virgin. They also offer a typical holiday meal called a “relic” which is shared with friends, neighbors, relatives and dancers.

The faithful approach Cerro Tepeyac, located near present-day Mexico City. There the Virgin of Guadalupe appeared to Juan Diego, right where the basilica is believed to have been built.

The Basilica of Guadalupe It is one of the most visited places by millions of people who come to keep their promises or ask for a miracle.

Over the years it has become the most popular place for Mexicans, who travel the country for days by car, on foot and even on their knees to celebrate their patron saint.