The Assumption of Mary is a NATIONAL public holiday that is celebrated on the 15th of August in Spain and throughout many other parts of the world. It represents a day off for the general population when schools and most businesses are closed.
What does this holiday celebrate?
This major religious festival celebrates the belief that God raised the body of the Virgin Mary after her death to heaven where she reunited with her soul. At first, the holiday was supposed to replace the previous pagan harvest festival and since the 18th century the feast of the Assumption has been celebrated.
Festivities All Around Spain
The festivities begin on the 11th of August and continue until the 15th of August throughout Spain. A number of towns throughout Spain hold colourful processions, fairs, parades, dances, costume contests and much more.
Fun in the Streets
During the celebrations, people dress up in traditional chulapo suits. Women wear colourful dresses and white cloths on their head while the men suit up into their don vests, white shirts and black trousers. Processionals march through the streets to honour the Virgin Mary and later, many towns will hold outdoor festivals. Neighbourhoods sometimes decorate the streets with flowers and colourful fabrics.
Puente
A puente (Spanish for bridge) is a holiday in Spain, it is the day off to bridge the time between the weekend and a holiday, thereby creating a long weekend. A puente typically occurs when a holiday falls on a Tuesday or Thursday, workers will then take a Monday or Friday off.
Where ever you are, enjoy the celebrations!!