31 Jan-11 Feb 2014. Despite the title of this post there is a solemn religious component to Candelaria that is embraced by the participants whether or not they still practice the rituals and worship of the old gods. It all blends together. Legend has it that in 1392, prior to the arrival of the Spanish, … Continue reading Boots, Booze and Buxom Babes. The Festival of the Virgin of Candelaria.