On May 3rd, the streets of Ajijic, Jalisco, fill with color, joy, and devotion as the Day of the Holy Cross is celebrated. This festivity has deep religious and cultural roots and is one of the most significant traditions in the town. It is a day when families, construction workers, and the community come together to honor the cross, decorate altars, and share food and drinks in a festive atmosphere.
Origin of the Day of the Holy Cross
The Day of the Holy Cross has its origins in Christianity. The story goes that in the year 326, Empress Helena of Constantinople, mother of Emperor Constantine, found the cross on which Jesus Christ was crucified in Jerusalem. To verify its authenticity, she placed the cross near a recently deceased man, who miraculously came back to life. Since then, May 3rd has been celebrated with processions and acts of faith in many Catholic-tradition countries.
In Mexico, this festivity has evolved over time and has intertwined with local customs, resulting in unique celebrations in different regions, including Ajijic.
The Tradition in Ajijic: “Passing the Cross”
One of the most representative customs of the Day of the Cross in Ajijic is “passing the Cross.” During this celebration, families set up altars at the entrance of their homes, decorated with papel picado, flowers, fruits, and traditional foods. Common offerings include tachigual (a type of corn bread), tamales, and tequila.
The tradition dictates that someone must “lift the Cross,” meaning that a person or family collects the items from the altar with the condition that the following year, they will set up their own altar with what they took and add something more. This cycle fosters unity and commitment among the town’s inhabitants, ensuring that the celebration continues over time.
Construction Workers and the Holy Cross
Another important aspect of this festivity is its connection with construction workers. In Mexico, May 3rd is also known as Construction Workers’ Day because it is common for workers to place a wooden cross adorned with flowers and colorful ribbons at the highest point of buildings under construction.
This custom dates back to pre-Hispanic times when farmers performed ceremonies to ask for good harvests. With the arrival of the Spanish and evangelization, these practices transformed and began to be directed to the Holy Cross, asking for protection in construction work, which often involves high-risk tasks.
In many construction sites in Ajijic, employers show appreciation for their workers by offering food and drinks, reinforcing the sense of community and respect for this profession.
The Celebration in the Streets
The Day of the Cross in Ajijic is not just a private event in homes but also a communal celebration. The town’s streets fill with altars, music, dances, and prayers. Families commonly gather to share food and drinks while enjoying the festivities.
The town’s oldest crosses are also decorated with flowers and candles, creating an atmosphere full of faith and respect for traditions. Additionally, in some areas, masses and processions are organized to bless the crosses and pray for the protection of the community.
Cultural and Touristic Importance
For Ajijic, a town with strong tourist appeal, the Day of the Cross is an opportunity to showcase its cultural richness to visitors. Many national and international tourists are drawn to this celebration, benefiting local businesses such as restaurants, hotels, and craft shops.
Hotel Casa Blanca, for example, could take advantage of this festivity by offering personalized experiences to its guests, such as guided tours of the altars, tastings of traditional food, or special activities related to the celebration.
Conclusion
The Day of the Cross in Ajijic is much more than a religious festivity; it is an expression of identity, community, and tradition. The custom of “passing the Cross,” the celebration of construction workers, and the decoration of crosses throughout the town make this day a unique and special experience.
For locals, it is a time of faith and togetherness. For visitors, it is an opportunity to learn about and participate in a living tradition that enhances the magical essence of Ajijic. Without a doubt, this celebration is one of the cultural gems that make this town so special.
