Libia celebrates the traditional ‘Flower Day’

State and municipal Authorities offered ice cream to the people of Guanajuato and tourists on the steps of the Juarez Theater

Guanajuato/Gto News

On Friday morning the city of Guanajuato was adorned with flowers; Governor Libia Dennise García Muñoz Ledo, accompanied by the President of the State DIF, Juan Carlos Montesinos Carranza, participated in the traditional festivities of Flower Day and Friday of Our Lady of Sorrows.

As part of this tradition, in addition to handing out flowers to people in the Union Garden, Libia Dennise distributed ice cream on the steps of the Juarez Theater to the people of Guanajuato and tourists walking around in the Historic Center.

The Legal and Extended Cabinet participated, in addition to the presence of Mayor of Guanajuato, Samantha Smith Gutierrez.

This tradition has its origins in the 19th century, with formal records dating back to 1885, when altars dedicated to the Virgin of Sorrows began to be set up in homes, temples, and old mines. The miners adopted her as their patron saint, seeking comfort and protection from the risks of their profession.

These altars, known as “Altars of Sorrows”, are characterized by their symbolic meaning, decorated with flowers, candles, shredded paper, germinated seeds, oranges, and elements that evoke pain and hope.

Another element is the fruit flavored water offered to those who visit the altars. This drink is known as “tears of the Virgin” and represents Mary’s tears. Ice cream, popsicles, or other frozen treats are also given as a gesture of hospitality that has become a cherished characteristic of the celebration.

From early morning, the streets of the historic center are filled with stalls selling natural and paper flowers, decorated eggshells, handicrafts, and typical sweets.

Giving flowers is a symbolic offering to the Virgin and also represents joy, life and togetherness, in contrast to the solemn sense of the religious date.

This festival has not only been preserved, but has been enriched. Today it is an emblem of Guanajuato City and a major tourist attraction that marks the beginning of the Holy Week holiday season.

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