Candlemas or Día de la Candelaria , Mexico

Otherwise known as Día de la Candelaria, Candlemas is primarily a religious and family celebration organized in the country of Mexico. This festival got its name- Candlemas because of the ritual of bringing the candles to the church to get them blessed there.

The Candlemas in Mexico marks the end of the winter season and is celebrated in a very joyous manner. However, this festival is the continuation of another significant celebration held in January 6th every year known as King's Day. On this day, the families catch up with each other and take meal together.

Gifts are exchanged and the highlight is the cutting of the traditional Rosca de Reves- an Epiphany cake that has a figure of Jesus hidden inside. Who ever finds that figure, plays host to the ensuing Candlemas.

In Mexico, Candlemas celebrations marks the colourful parades, musical performances, dance and streets decorated with impressive lanterns. During it, the locals visit the church, entertain family and friends with meals and parties. The Candlemas stuffed corn-pancake- Tamales are the signature food item of this event.

If you are in places like Tlacotalpan and Veracruz, you will get a bit different taste of the same festival. Here it is a grand fiesta with fun parades and bullfighting.