Puebla is celebrating one of its most revered traditions this Good Friday, April 18, 2025, as the city prepares for the annual Procession of Good Friday. The event, which honors the death of Jesus Christ, is marked by the presence of seven significant religious images that will traverse the historic streets of Puebla, drawing both locals and tourists alike.
Beginning at 12:00 PM, the procession will kick off from the Cathedral of Puebla, where Archbishop Víctor Sánchez Espinosa is expected to deliver the first reflection. This year, the images participating in the procession include the Virgin of Solitude, the Virgin of Sorrows, the Lord of Miracles, Jesus Nazarene, the Lord of the Three Falls, Jesus of Mercy, and the Child Doctor of Tepeaca. The arrival of these images at the Cathedral is scheduled to start from 11:00 AM, culminating with the last image, the Lord of Miracles, arriving shortly before the procession begins.
The origins of the Good Friday procession in Puebla date back to the early years of the city’s founding, continuing throughout the Viceroyalty period until it was interrupted by the Reform Laws. In 1992, the tradition was revived, and it has since become a cherished event in the community, celebrating its 33rd anniversary this year.
On this day, the streets of downtown Puebla will be bustling with activity, but not without some restrictions. The Secretariat of Citizen Security announced that several streets will be closed from 7:00 AM until 4:30 PM to accommodate the procession. Key streets affected by the closures include Avenida Reforma, 16 de Septiembre, 10 Sur, 13 Oriente, and Avenida 18 Oriente. Alternate routes have been provided for drivers, including 17 Norte-Sur and Bulevar 5 de Mayo.
As the procession progresses, it will follow a specific route through the city, starting from the Cathedral and passing in front of the municipal palace on Juan de Palafox y Mendoza. The procession will then continue along Calle 5 de Mayo, turning onto 4 Oriente, and making its way to Avenida Reforma, where a second reflection will take place. Finally, it will conclude back at the Cathedral with a final reflection at 3:00 PM.
This year’s procession is expected to last approximately three hours, with the Archbishop leading the event after the reading of the Prayer of the Seven Words. As the images depart, they will be accompanied by a variety of participants, including tamborileros (drummers), children dressed as angels, and the Archbishop himself, alongside the rector of UPAEP, Emilio Baños Ardavi.
From early morning, crowds have begun to gather in the streets, carrying flowers and images as tokens of their devotion. Many locals and visitors are eager to witness this significant cultural and religious event, which showcases the deep-rooted traditions of Puebla.
For those unable to attend in person, the procession will be broadcast live on various digital platforms, including Canal 6 and the official social media pages of the Archdiocese of Puebla. The live coverage will ensure that even those at home can participate in this important occasion.
As the faithful gather to commemorate the passion and death of Christ, it is crucial for attendees to take precautions, particularly against dehydration and heat. Authorities have advised attendees to wear comfortable clothing, stay hydrated, and avoid bringing large bags or pets to the event.
The Good Friday procession is not merely a religious observance; it is a vibrant display of community spirit and cultural heritage that resonates deeply within the hearts of those who partake in it. With its rich history and the collective faith of its people, Puebla’s Good Friday procession continues to be a poignant reminder of sacrifice, reflection, and unity.
As the city prepares for this year’s event, the echoes of drums and the sight of revered images will once again fill the streets, creating an atmosphere of reverence and celebration that embodies the essence of Good Friday in Puebla.
