A 14-Kilometer Walk of Love and Devotion

The traditional festival of Dzidzantún in honor of the Virgin Santa Clara is one of the most anticipated and heartfelt events in the region. Considered the town’s most important celebration, it takes place between late July and early August, filling every corner with faith and devotion.

The highlight is the moving pilgrimage of the “Claristas” on July 22 and August 2. Many of them, driven by faith and the desire to fulfill their promises, carry on their shoulders the “Claritas”—wooden images of the Virgin Santa Clara in different sizes—asking for blessings for fishing, agriculture, and the well-being of the town. The walk, which spans 14 kilometers from the Parish of Santa Clara in the center of Dzidzantún to the port of Santa Clara, is an act of profound devotion that unites the entire community.

At the conclusion of the final pilgrimage, the town festival bursts into joy and tradition. During the first half of August, the streets come alive with activities such as the vaquería, the traditional “pig’s head dance,” and a vibrant fair filled with cultural and musical events honoring the Virgin.

This celebration is a true moment of unity for the people of Dzidzantún. Along the way, numerous supporters join in by offering refreshments, water, and food to the pilgrims, showcasing the generosity and solidarity of the community. They set up along their properties on the roadside where the Virgin makes her journey.

This year, Grupo RH is proud to have joined this noble tradition. As part of this experience, the RH Experience team had the honor of participating and learning firsthand about this beautiful custom. To be part of a tradition is, in essence, to be part of the culture of a place, and we had the incredible opportunity to share and immerse ourselves in this meaningful experience.

We supported the event by offering small refreshments to the walkers and, in the process, were able to speak with people of all ages. We asked them about their promises, who taught them this tradition, and how long they had been participating. We were moved to see that many began as children, following in the footsteps of their parents and grandparents, and now continue teaching this devotion to their own children. The joy and pride they expressed—not only through their words but also through the tears in their eyes—was something that deeply touched us.

We witnessed firsthand the value of this tradition and, beyond our support with refreshments, we also made a monetary donation directly to the church. The priest of the Parish of Santa Clara warmly thanked us for our contribution.

Without a doubt, the experience of joining the Traditional Festival of Dzidzantún showed us that the true wealth of a town lies in its customs, in its shared devotion, and in the warmth of its people. It has been an honor to be part of this legacy of faith and community.