Procession for the Patron Saint of Xicotepec
A time when people give thanks for favors received and make requests for their harvests and lives.
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July 24th each year is when Xicotepec holds a feast blending Catholic and pagan traditions. In accordance with the Catholic calendar, it’s the feast day honoring the town’s patron saint: St. John the Baptist. However, for the indigenous population it’s about Juan Techachalco, the figure that incarnates both the attributes of St. John the Baptist and Xochipilli, the god of witches, medicinal plants, and flowers. On that day, the teponaxtle (a musical instrument reserved for the occasion) is taken out of its holding place at Palacio Municipal. There is a lively procession that makes its way to the Xochipila (the town’s ancient ceremonial center) to the tune of the teponaxtle. Not only Indians, but also white and black witches come here to entrust themselves to the protector of their craft. Cleanses and healings are performed, while colorful dances, incense, and all around joy are joined by offerings of flowers and food.
Xicotepec de Juárez, Pue., México
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