Among the many celebrations that are held in this area and specially in Loreto, the best known and most traditional one is the Festival of San Juan celebrated on the 24th June. People from the entire department and from the Peruvian Jungle take part in such celebration.
It is at this important festival that people celebrate the purification of water and give thanks for the gifts of Nature. Feelings of brotherhood, unity and joyousness arouse during this two days.
Legend has is that the festival must take place on this date in order to honor the saint that was chosen by God himself to be the Amazonia's Patron Saint.
During the night of the 23rd June, men and women of the Amazon go by the rivers to be given a cleansing bath. It is widely believed that waters are blessed on that date, and everyone who baths will enjoy happiness and good health.
On the following day, a mass is offered in San Juan neighborhood and afterwards a procession is made headed by the typical band. Afterwards, men and women taken by the hand and dance around the "Unshas", which are palms adorned with presents.
|
