Holy Week, one of Christianity's four-day spiritual holidays, is celebrated with devotion throughout almost the entire American continent. However, there are notable exceptions in Latin America, where this tradition is not officially observed. There are peculiarities and reasons for the lack of celebrations in two specific countries: cultural and political contexts.
Which two countries in Latin America do not celebrate Holy Week?
Across Latin America, Holy Week is manifested through various expressions of faith and culture, from processions to liturgical events. However, the situation is different in countries like Mexico and Uruguay. Although popular festivals and acts of worship are held in the former nation, these dates are not officially designated as religious festivals by the secular Mexican state. For its part, the Uruguayan country presents a unique approach and calls this period Tourism Week, focusing on leisure and cultural activities rather than religious activities.
Holy Week is one of the most important religious festivals of the year, but only in some countries. Photo: Hiraoka
How have Holy Week celebrations evolved in Mexico and Uruguay?
Holy Week celebrations in Mexico and Uruguay have evolved. In the first country, the fusion of indigenous and Catholic traditions has enriched celebrations, keeping religious processions and rituals alive while incorporating indigenous cultural elements. In the Uruguayan nation, the transformation is aimed at secularization, with which Tourism week Promoting leisure and cultural activities instead of religious events, reflecting the secular nature of the country.
Why don't the two Latin American countries celebrate Holy Week?
The answer lies in the history and political configuration of each nation. MexicoWith its strong legacy from the revolution and reform laws, it promotes a clear separation between church and state and restricts the official manifestations of any religious creed in public spaces. UruguayFor its part, the country has adopted a similar stance by promoting a secular state and dedicating the week to promoting domestic tourism and national culture. This decision reflects respect for religious plurality and a focus on the common good beyond specific faiths.
The holidays of Holy Week 2024 are Thursday, March 28th and Friday, March 29th, i.e. the dates on which Maundy Thursday and Good Friday fall. Photo: Hiraoka
How do they celebrate Holy Week in other Latin American countries?
In Latin America it is Easter It is celebrated with a unique mix of Catholic traditions and country-specific cultural elements. These celebrations include processions, depictions of the Passion of Christ and community activities. Each country has its own customs that reflect the cultural diversity of the region. For detailed information about specific celebrations in different Latin American countries, I recommend searching for sources that specialize in the region's cultural and religious traditions.