In Antigua Guatemala, Patron Saint day celebrations honoring Santiago Apostol (St. James the Apostle) happen every July 25th. Antigua was originally named Ciudad de Santiago de los Caballeros de Goathemalam, after Santiago Apostol, who was also the patron saint of the Spanish Conquistadors and is also Spain’s patron saint or protector.
While July 25th is the official day, there are activities happening in the city all throughout the month of July. They are a great opportunity to get a bit of the local flavor.
The photos below were taken on July 25th, during the traditional parade – schools from all over Antigua participate. Some schools have marching bands, others dress up in religious outfits, Spanish colonial-era costumes, or both.
I particularly enjoyed the “bullfighting”, which back in the day actually took place with real bulls, at Parque Central, back when there weren’t any trees, fountain, or benches to be found.
Enjoy the pics!
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