Candombe Day

Candombe is an important cultural expression in Uruguay, and it is celebrated throughout the year in different ways. However, there is a special day that is dedicated to this music and dance style in Uruguay, known as “Día del Candombe” (Candombe Day).

Candombe Day is celebrated on December 2nd of each year in Uruguay. This date was chosen because it marks the anniversary of the birth of Uruguayan musician, composer, and candombe icon Ruben Rada.

On this day, candombe groups gather in the streets and neighborhoods of Montevideo, the capital city of Uruguay, to play their drums and dance. The celebrations often last late into the night, with people of all ages and backgrounds joining in the festivities.

Candombe Day is an important cultural event in Uruguay that highlights the country’s rich Afro-Uruguayan heritage and the contribution of this music and dance to Uruguay’s cultural identity.

Lemanjá Festival – February 2

The “Lemanjá Festival” (Fiesta de la Virgen de la Candelaria de la Viña) is held annually in Montevideo, the capital city of Uruguay, on February 2nd.

Lemanjá is a goddess from the Yoruba religion, which is an Afro-Caribbean religion that was brought to Uruguay by slaves from West Africa. The festival is a celebration of the goddess Lemanjá, and it includes a procession to the Ramírez beach, where people bring offerings to the goddess and cast them into the sea.

The offerings may include flowers, fruits, and small boats with candles, and people often dress in white and blue, which are the colors associated with Lemanjá. There are also musical performances, dances, and other cultural activities throughout the day.

The Lemanjá Festival is an important cultural event in Uruguay, and it is a celebration of the country’s African heritage and its cultural diversity. It is a unique and vibrant festival that attracts many people each year.