Puerto Rican Patron Saint Festivals
August 10, 2012
So I have traveled a lot… and in all those travels, I have never experienced a culture that has as many festivals as Puerto Rico.
Puerto Rico is a very religious place and the people of Puerto Rico like to dedicate specific days to a saint. All around the island you will find Patron Saint Festivals celebrated throughout the year.
If you’re like me, you are probably wondering – what is a patron saint?
According to the Catholic church, patron are chosen as special protectors or guardians over all areas of life. Traditionally people see them as symbols of how to live a better life.
Almost every town In Puerto Rico celebrates at least one patron saint festival with singing, dancing, rides, religious processions, concerts, and banquets of regional food spread out over 10 days. Typically held in the town square, these festivals are based upon the Catholic saints, but some incorporate elements of African culture as well.
After learning all of that, I wanted to find out if we have a patron saint here in Colorado – and we DO! It’s St. Francis of Assisi. He loved nature and wildlife, so he was made the patron saint of animals. It totally makes sense why he would be Colorado’s patron saint. Pretty cool!
Learn more about Puerto Rico – check out our video!
So I have traveled a lot… and in all those travels, I have never experienced a culture that has as many festivals as Puerto Rico.
Puerto Rico is a very religious place and the people of Puerto Rico like to dedicate specific days to a saint. All around the island you will find Patron Saint Festivals celebrated throughout the year.
If you’re like me, you are probably wondering – what is a patron saint?
According to the Catholic church, patron are chosen as special protectors or guardians over all areas of life. Traditionally people see them as symbols of how to live a better life.
Almost every town In Puerto Rico celebrates at least one patron saint festival with singing, dancing, rides, religious processions, concerts, and banquets of regional food spread out over 10 days. Typically held in the town square, these festivals are based upon the Catholic saints, but some incorporate elements of African culture as well.
After learning all of that, I wanted to find out if we have a patron saint here in Colorado – and we DO! It’s St. Francis of Assisi. He loved nature and wildlife, so he was made the patron saint of animals. It totally makes sense why he would be Colorado’s patron saint. Pretty cool!
Learn more about Puerto Rico – check out our video!