We had the opportunity to see the “Procesión de Santa Cruz” on Holy Wednesday (March 28, 2018) from a great spot. We were invited to watch the parade from the balcony at our friends home. They live in the heart of Santa Cruz and on the main route of the procession.

We enjoyed time visiting with our friends before the start of the procession. I could see on the street below large crowds of people lining up to get a good spot to watch the parade.

The procession began with a band of Romans marching and playing music.

The procession in Santa Cruz includes a long history and tradition. The “floats” are carried by approximately 30 people who are chosen for the honour. The weight of the “Paso” or float is approximately 1500 lbs or more depending on the specific paso.

We watched as they carried the different “pasos” down the narrow and steep stairs of Santa Cruz. It was amazing to watch just how hard and difficult it was.

There was a paso of the Virgin Mary which was carried by only women.

There is a belief that if you can touch one of the pasos in the procession it will bring you luck for the year. Many people reach out and touch them as they go by.

People dress in Black and wear veils to “Mourn” during the procession. They wear elaborate black clothing and some cry and moan as they go through the procession.

Even the young children take part in the procession.

We stayed and watched the entire procession from the balcony and enjoyed the time with friends.  At around 11 pm the procession and floats returned on the same route. We stayed and watched it for a second time coming up the street. It was amazing to see the amount of effort and work it took to get the floats through the narrowest section of the street. Bellow is a video of some of the highlights of the procession.

It was a great experience to watch the procession from such a great vantage point.

“Adios y que tenga un gran dia”