20 de Septiembre
Church of La Merced, San Cristóbal de Las Casas
In San Cristóbal de Las Casas, the Feast of Our Lady of Mercy is one of the most traditional and long-standing patronal celebrations. The historic Barrio de La Merced, founded in 1637 following the arrival of the Mercedarian friars, still safeguards the revered image of the Virgin. Every year, starting on September 20, the local community prepares to welcome devotees and visitors to this important religious center.
The festivities officially begin on September 22 with the traditional dawn callejoneada through the main streets of the Magic Town, accompanied by the emblematic panzudos—dancers whose colorful padded costumes and masks symbolize human sins. According to oral tradition, the more sins one must expiate, the larger and more fearsome the costume. That same day, the fair is formally announced, along with a parade of decorated floats carrying the image of the Virgin.
On September 24, the main day of the celebration, activities begin early with mañanitas, processions, fireworks, and a series of masses. Musical groups perform outside the temple, while inside, priests conduct religious ceremonies. Residents also set up food stands to raise funds for the temple dedicated to their patroness.
Devotion to Our Lady of Mercy extends to other municipalities such as Teopisca, where the festivity includes the traditional “Dance of the Blacks or Masks,” featuring performers dressed as devils and figures symbolizing death.
The festivities officially begin on September 22 with the traditional dawn callejoneada through the main streets of the Magic Town, accompanied by the emblematic panzudos—dancers whose colorful padded costumes and masks symbolize human sins. According to oral tradition, the more sins one must expiate, the larger and more fearsome the costume. That same day, the fair is formally announced, along with a parade of decorated floats carrying the image of the Virgin.
On September 24, the main day of the celebration, activities begin early with mañanitas, processions, fireworks, and a series of masses. Musical groups perform outside the temple, while inside, priests conduct religious ceremonies. Residents also set up food stands to raise funds for the temple dedicated to their patroness.
Devotion to Our Lady of Mercy extends to other municipalities such as Teopisca, where the festivity includes the traditional “Dance of the Blacks or Masks,” featuring performers dressed as devils and figures symbolizing death.
