December 8

Santa Marian Kamalen Day

On Santa Marian Kamalen Day, honor the patron saint of Guam with prayers, processions, and feasts - a celebration not to be missed!

Yearly Date
December 8
Type
Day
Category
Religious
Country
Guam

Introduction

Mark your calendars for December 8th, because Santa Marian Kamalen Day is just around the corner! This day, also known as Feast of the Immaculate Conception, is a major holiday in Guam and celebrates the patron saint of the island. Legend has it that a statue of Santa Marian Kamalen was found on the shores of Guam by two brothers who were out fishing. Since then, she has been revered as a symbol of hope and protection for the people of Guam. This holiday is marked with colorful processions, food festivals, and religious ceremonies that showcase the rich culture and traditions of this beautiful island. Let's join in on the festivities and honor Santa Marian Kamalen on this special day!

Santa Marian Kamalen Day Timeline

1565
Statue Discovery
According to a legend, the original wooden statue of Santa Marian Kamalen was found by two fishermen on the shores of Merizo, Guam.
1700s
First Procession
The first procession in honor of Santa Marian Kamalen was held, a tradition that remains a major part of the celebration today.
1825
Statue Restoration
The statue of Santa Marian Kamalen was restored due to severe damage from termite infestation and exposure to the elements.
1945
Post-War Resurgence
Despite the destruction caused by World War II, the residents managed to re-establish the ceremonial procession of Santa Marian Kamalen.
2002
Recognition of Cultural Significance
Santa Marian Kamalen Day was recognized for its cultural importance and named an official holiday in Guam.

How to Celebrate Santa Marian Kamalen Day

1

Attend a traditional mass

Celebrate the feast day of Santa Marian Kamalen by attending a traditional mass at your local church. This is a great way to honor the patron saint of Guam and participate in the religious aspect of the holiday.

2

Join a cultural parade

Many cities in Guam hold cultural parades on Santa Marian Kamalen Day, featuring traditional dances, costumes, and music. Join in on the festivities and experience the rich culture of Guam.

3

Prepare and share a Chamorro feast

Gather your family and friends to prepare and share a traditional Chamorro feast in honor of Santa Marian Kamalen. This is a great way to bond with loved ones and enjoy delicious Chamorro cuisine.

4

Visit the Santa Marian Kamalen statue

Take a trip to the Santa Marian Kamalen statue in Hagatna, Guam to pay your respects and offer prayers. This is a popular pilgrimage site on the feast day of Santa Marian Kamalen.

5

Participate in traditional games

Gather some friends and family to participate in traditional Chamorro games, such as coconut husking or throwing a sling stone. This is a fun way to honor and celebrate the culture of Guam on Santa Marian Kamalen Day.

Why Santa Marian Kamalen Day is Important

A

It celebrates a beloved figure in Guamanian culture

Santa Marian Kamalen, also known as Our Lady of Camarin, is an important figure in the Catholic faith and holds a special place in Guamanian culture. This holiday gives people the opportunity to honor and show devotion to her through religious celebrations and traditions.

B

It brings the community together

Santa Marian Kamalen Day is a time for family and friends to come together and celebrate their shared faith and culture. It's a chance for people to reconnect with one another and strengthen their bonds by participating in events and activities throughout the day.

C

It promotes cultural preservation

As modern influences continue to shape society, it's important that traditions and customs are not lost. Santa Marian Kamalen Day helps to keep Guam's rich cultural heritage alive by celebrating its unique traditions, language, food and music.

Santa Marian Kamalen Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Dec 7
Thursday
2024
Dec 7
Saturday
2025
Dec 7
Sunday
2026
Dec 7
Monday
2027
Dec 7
Tuesday