Today, convites are a blend of everything, with costumes and characters that reflect Guatemalan culture and incorporate Mayan influences, including colorful feathers, skulls, and wolf and tiger representations inspired by the attire of Mayan warriors.
Traditions are important in Guatemalan culture, and this one remains vibrant. It is a time for the community to come together as one and join in the festivities. San Bernardino (Saint Bernard) is Patzun's patron saint. Each year, the community chooses a family to host the town's representation of the saint in their home for the year, taking care of it and welcoming visitors during the festival. After the parade has passed through town, a group of men carry the representation of the patron saint on their shoulders and place him on a special altar decorated with all kinds of flowers and an alfombra. An alfombra is a carpet-like decoration made from the sawdust (created after cutting wood), which is often painted and used to form different designs. After this, community members, dancers and others gather at this home to enjoy a cup of horchata (a traditional rice drink) and a plate of caldo (beef stew).
This tradition not only celebrates the town's patron saint but also offers a chance for people to express their gratitude for the blessings received throughout the year. It serves as an occasion to preserve and honor cultural heritage, highlighting how colonial history and long-lasting Mayan traditions have coexisted, or existed alongside each other, for many years.
