Día de las Velitas

Yesterday, December 8th was a festivo day in Colombia, however it was a very special day that is celebrated every December. It's called: El Día de las Velitas (The Day of Candles). This day marks the official start of Christmas festivities throughout the country.

A little history on El Día de las Velitas:
"The celebration of this day began on December 8, 1854, when Pope Pius IX declared the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary, a dogma of faith which states that by a singular grace of God, Mary was preserved from all sin, from its conception. This doctrine is of apostolic origin, but the dogma was proclaimed in 1854."

It is tradition that families spend it together, and light candles outside, listen to music, eat various kinds of food, and enjoy each others company. Also when each candle is lit, you are suppose to make a wish. It was beautiful to go around the city and various neighbourhoods and see all the candles light outside of people's homes.

To start the night, I headed to Sara's apartment to help decorate her house with the rest of her family, Leo and Leo's friend. We then ate a very common Colombian dinner which consisted of arepa con quesito, tostadas, and hot chocolate.




Then Sara, Leo, his friend, and myself headed outside to the park across the street from where Sara lives to light our own candles! While lighting each candle, I made sure to make a wish, and I even lit a candle for my mom. :)




While sitting in the park with our candles, there were many other people doing the same. There were even 2 hippies who came into the park to do a fire juggling show, which was impressive to see. We sat around the candles, chatting, and just enjoying the night, and taking in El Día de las Velitas. It was great to experience this special day in Colombia, and be apart of it! Thanks Sara! :)