Holy Week and Easter are major celebrations in Spanish-speaking countries. From the impressive processions in Spain to the colorful festivities in Latin America, each region has its own customs and rituals. In this article, we explore how Holy Week is celebrated in different Spanish-speaking countries and what makes it unique.

What is Holy Week and Easter?

Holy Week commemorates the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. It begins on Palm Sunday and ends on Easter Sunday. In many countries, these days are marked by public holidays and religious events.

Easter, which celebrates Christ’s Resurrection, is the culmination of Holy Week. Besides its religious significance, some regions also include popular traditions such as Easter egg decoration and family gatherings.

Semana Santa en España: Pasión y devoción

Spain is one of the countries where Holy Week is celebrated with the greatest fervor. Processions organized by religious brotherhoods take place, especially in cities like Seville, Málaga, and Zamora. During these ceremonies, penitents and “costaleros” carry religious images while traditional flamenco “saetas” are sung.

Key Traditions in Spain:

• Solemn processions with religious floats.
• “La Madrugá” in Seville, one of the most iconic nights.
• “Torrijas,” a typical Easter dessert.

Semana Santa en México: Religión y cultura popular

In Mexico, Holy Week blends religious devotion with cultural traditions. Passion plays are performed in different states, with the most famous one taking place in Iztapalapa, Mexico City, where thousands participate in a live reenactment.

Mexican Traditions:

• Live reenactments of the Passion of Christ.
• Family gatherings with traditional dishes like codfish and “romeritos.”
• “Burning of Judas” on Holy Saturday, where effigies of Judas are burned as a symbol of betrayal.

Semana Santa en Argentina: Fe y tradiciones gastronómicas

In Argentina, Holy Week is a time for reflection, but also for relaxation, as many families take advantage of the holidays to travel. Religious activities include Masses and the Way of the Cross, such as the famous one led by Pope Francis in Buenos Aires.

Argentine Traditions:

• Eating “empanadas de vigilia” and fish, as red meat is avoided.
• Visiting seven churches on Holy Thursday.
• Easter Sunday family gatherings with “rosca de Pascua” and chocolate eggs.

Semana Santa en Colombia: Celebraciones multitudinarias

In Colombia, cities like Popayán are famous for their Holy Week processions, which have been declared Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. Religious ceremonies take place across the country.

Colombian Traditions:

• Large-scale processions and Masses.
• Traditional dishes like fish soup and “mote de queso.”
• Religious tourism in cities like Popayán and Mompox.

Semana Santa en Perú: Un encuentro entre lo religioso y lo andino

In Peru, Catholic faith merges with indigenous traditions during Holy Week. The celebration in Ayacucho is one of the country’s most significant, featuring processions, floral carpets, and cultural events.

Peruvian Traditions:

• Floral carpets decorating the streets.
• Eating 12 traditional dishes on Good Friday in honor of the 12 apostles.
• Religious processions and liturgical events.

Conclusion: A Unique Celebration in Each Country

Holy Week and Easter in Spanish-speaking countries are filled with devotion, culture, and unique gastronomic traditions. From the solemn processions in Spain to the colorful festivities in Latin America, these dates represent a special time for millions of people.

If you’re learning Spanish, understanding these customs will help you appreciate the culture of Spanish-speaking countries. Have you experienced Holy Week in a Spanish-speaking country?