Las Mañanitas in Puerto Rico 2024

One of the largest religious processions in Puerto Rico is held in Ponce every December. Las Mañanitas is the annual festival that commemorates Our Lady of Guadalupe. Its main highlight is the night-time parade, followed by a mass and a massive breakfast in the City Hall. The festivities attract about 10,000 people annually.

Las Mañanitas Procession

Las Mañanitas always starts at 4 am on December 12th at Parque del Tricentenario. The procession is led by a group of devotees carrying an altar and is accompanied by Mariachi music. Participants are also carrying lit candles. The parade goes down Calle Isabel and ends at Plaza Las Delicias where thousands flock to Catedral de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe. The arrival of the Virgin is marked with fireworks, while the Bishop opens the Cathedral doors to welcome the procession.

Festivities continue with a free breakfast at the City Hall attended by politicians, Catholic leaders, celebrities, and the general public. Las Mañanitas end with an open-air concert at the central square, while the statue of the Virgin is being returned to the Chapel.

History

The celebration began in 1964, though its origins remain uncertain. Some believe it was initiated by Mexican immigrant engineers, while others claim Spaniards started it from Extremadura, Spain. The event is organized by Hermandad Guadalupana de Ponce and has become a symbol of cultural and religious unity, drawing participants from across Puerto Rico. This celebration brings together local and Mexican communities to honor shared traditions and religious devotion.