1. Semana Santa Spring Break in Mexico

2. History of Spring Break • Spring Break is also known as the Holy Week in Mexico. • It is an important religious observance period as well as a time for vacation. Following Spring Break is such holidays as Lent and Carnival. • Holy Week begins on Palm, Sunday, the palms used on this day are often woven into intricate designs. In many places ceremonies, masses, and other things can happen all week. The most common day for any of the above to occur are on Monday, Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday, and Easter Sunday. • Holy Saturday is marked by the burning of Judas, especially in the center and south of the country. • Easter Sunday is usually marked by a mass as well as the ringing of the church bells.

3. History Continued.... • Mexican Holy Week traditions are mostly taken from Spanish traditions when they came over and conquered the Aztecs in about the 1500's. • Some other areas follow different conditions than the rest of the people for example Mexico City. • The holiday usually occurs during the hottest time of the year.

4. Religious Observances • Holy Week is the most widely celebrated religious holiday in Mexico. • Almost every city has some sort of observance. • The holiday usually starts on Palm Sunday and at least extends until Easter Sunday, but usually lasts the entire week after that too. • The US has made some effect on Mexico the Easter Bunny and Easter Eggs are known, but they are more common during the border. • Prior to Easter the Lenten rules are still in effect. • The week before Holy Week there are some ceremonies that take place first one is the Virgin of Sorrows and that occurs on the Friday before Good Friday.

5. Religious Observances Continued • The Festival focuses on Mary knowing that Jesus had to die to save mankind from sin and the pain she had. • The Virgin is usually shown in purple and there are many altars set up around to honor her. • On the Wednesday before Easter there is a mass called The Vespers of Darkness, which recalls the disciples abandonment of Jesus. • The altars of the Churches will have a candelabra with fifteen candles, with one put out after the singing of a Psalm until only one candle remains in the middle representing Jesus. • Many churches hold reenactments of the Last Supper, as well as the crucification of Jesus.

6. Food • Pambazos with cheese • Antojitos • Fried Fish • Fried Plantains • Pancakes • Candies(especially with coconut) • Ice Cream • Flan

7. Videos http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G0PCicv8yMw 10 min 20 seconds http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=EbmrolmeIRM 2 min 27 seconds http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=rbfSSTsbBwM 3 min 58 seconds http://www.jansochor.com/photo-essay/semana-santa-cora-mexico.html 2 min 39 seconds