A favorite Nicaraguan tradition is called the “Purisima,” or Celebration of the Immaculate Conception of Mary, which is celebrated on the eve of Dec. 8. In the Catholic faith, it is a holy day of obligation, but Nicaragua has one of the most unique ways to celebrate. The “novena” or 9 days leading up to it have traditional prayers and songs devoted to the Virgin Mary. While Our Lady of Guadalupe is known as the Mexican Virgin Mary (and for all the Americas), The Immaculate Virgin Mary is Nicaraguan.
Across the country in homes, businesses, and neighborhoods, people come together for 9 days to pray a special novena, sing songs and distribute “gorra” (typical sweets and fruits) at the end. The last night of Dec. 7 is called “la griteria” (the shouting) and is a huge celebration. There are fireworks and thousands of people visiting house to house and shouting the rhetorical question of who can cause so much happiness and joy.
The city of Leon is the most enthusiastic city with its celebrations for the Griteria. The cathedral bells ring out at 6 p.m. and the doors open to signal the beginning of the 6-hour frenzy. Hundreds of homes open their doors and garages to the faithful who shout the question “Quien causa tanta alegria?” to be answered with “La Concepcion de Maria” and rewarded with traditional treats. Other shouts are: “Que Viva!” (long may she live), “Nicaragua de Maria” (Nicaragua belongs to Mary) and “Maria de Nicaragua” (Mary belongs to Nicaragua).
It will be interesting to see how the tradition is affected this pandemic year and if fervent devotees will celebrate it anyway!