Fiesta de la Virgen de la Candelaria in Bolivia

She is also called as Black Madonna of Lake or Holy Mother of Copacabana. Worshiped image of Madonna gathers palmers in Copacabana, the largest lakeside city at Easter and during the festivals in honor of Bolivia independence in August. Nevertheless, among other special celebrations there is a holiday dedicated to Virgin marked annually in February.

The faithful congregate by the beginning of the festival; the essence of their worships and rituals consists of the combination of Catholic and naïve convictions. It is regarded that in 1576, Inca craftsman Tito Yupanqui carved the statue of Virgin; it happened after the vision of Virgin who came to the local fishermen stuck in the storm and led them in the safe harbor. It was the first one among variety of marvels attributed to Virgin.

Holiday starts; however, Madonna remains in the safety of glorious basilica: it is thought that if she leaves holy borders something terrible may occur. Yet, her admirably dressed copy participates in the parade which is held along the whole city accompanying by thousands contestants of jubilance in bright costumes. Later they flood street so as to sing, dance, and rejoice.

In Copacabana, new cars decorated with flower garlands gather from throughout the country in expectance of challa – blessings in the name of Vrigin… afterwards they are «baptized» with beer, and vehicles are ready for further – safe – exploitation. One more popular affair is to buy tiny copies of items you want to obtain – in the hope Virgin will send the real good sent next year.