Festival of the Immaculate Conception

This past Thursday was the Feast of the Immaculate Conception and an important festival in Seville. During the week there are processionals with marching bands, priests, candles and golden alters with beautiful statues of Mary on them. The night before the feast day, Spanish troubadours dressed in capes and adorned with ribbons and patches wander the streets playing and singing songs about the Virgin Mary. They also bring flowers to a statue of Mary right by the Cathedral and serenade her. Another tradition during this time of year is "el baile de los seises." This dance occurs on the altar in the Cathedral by a statue of Mary. Young boys dressed up in stunning costumes with feathered hats perform the dance. Young girls and boys in the choir sing and are accompanied by an orchestra. This festival has been one of my favorites in Spain!