Driving to Los Angeles this past Saturday morning and listening to the radio (as I like to be ahead of the traffic alerts)… I was reminded that it was “Sabado de Gloria” or the Saturday before Easter which is a very special day here. It is the day of the Blessing of the Animals!
When I first moved to Los Angeles from the East Coast, I wanted to do everything, see everything and immerse myself in the all the culture and traditions, so I would always seek out and attend all the new and fun things!
Dogs of all faiths, cows, ducks, goats, horses, cats and birds too! and… while wearing their finest outfits are brought to Olivera Street which is in downtown Los Angeles. It is the oldest part of downtown and is part of El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument. Many refer to it as “La Placita Olivera” or Olivera Place.
It is a time honored tradition that began over 80 years ago and is rooted in ancient ritual for San Antonio de Abad or patron saint of the animal kingdom.
It is held in San Diego too, but at another time of the year. Known here as the Benediction of the Beasts, celebrating St. Anthony of the Desert, the patron saint of animals.
The animals are blessed by the priest or cardinal and then at 2pm, there is the parade of the animals…I am sorry, but I just can’t call them beasts! It is a great way to spend a beautiful Saturday afternoon with your camera!
I know that I could never get these felines of mine to attend, so I will just carrying their blessing back home. What would my life be like without them? and until next time…keep on stitching
Charley would be fetching in sunglasses and a scarf like that dog in the photo! But that is not even a remote possibility! Evidently miracles do happen – Alley Cat and Sylvester eyeing that chair- almost touching? A truly ‘touching’ shot!
Great story Vicky!
Thanks Judee!
I love your blog!!! Needlepoint, cats, animals…all the great info. It’s so much fun to read!
I have a totally unrelated to needlepoint question – we are going to be in SD this weekend for my daughter’s 21st bday and Crew Classic (rowing). From reading your blog, It sounds like you know so many wonderful places. I’d like to get her a really great cake for her birthday. I’ve googled bakeries and there seem to be so many nice ones but its so hard to tell just by a web page. I wondered if you had one or two that you would recommend ? ( we will be in both the La Jolla and Mission Bay Area ). Thanks and say hi to the cats. ~Jennifer
ooh the best bakery by far is Michele Coulon on Fay Street in La Jolla. It is across the street from Von’s and is sort of tucked behind Prep Kitchen…a great little restaurant.
Enjoy your weekend in America’s finest city…and I did go a few times to watch the crew classic many years ago!
Thanks Vicky! Michele Coulon was the one I had top on my list! Appreciate your help/ recommendation!
ooh she is the best! and my last birthday cake came from there!
Breaking News!! Breaking News!!
Sylvester’s tail is touching Alley Cat. Is that why she’s giving him the “do not touch me” look? 🙂
Sorry, couldn’t resist
Ooh you are too funny! and actually I did catch them “really” touching earlier this week…stay tuned for the picture!