Introduction To Semana Santa
Semana Santa, or Holy Week, is one of Paraguay’s most significant religious observances. After Christmas and the Pilgrimage to Caacupé, Easter is the most important religious event. Approximately 90% of the population identify as Christian – predominantly Roman Catholic. The Semana Santa is an annual event that commemorates the Passion of Christ.
Public Holiday Declaration
On April 11, 2025, President Santiago Peña signed Decree 3705. It declares that Wednesday, April 16, is a public holiday for officials in the central public administration and decentralised entities in observance of Semana Santa. The decree emphasises the holiday’s significant economic impact by promoting the consumption of goods and services related to domestic travel. These measures boost commercial and tourist activities during this important religious period.
The Five Important Days Of Easter
During Semana Santa, five key days are prominently observed. The first one is Palm Sunday (Domingo de Ramos) on April 13. It marks Jesus’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem, celebrated with processions and the blessing of palm branches. Maundy Thursday (Jueves Santo) on April 17 and Good Friday (Viernes Santo) on April 18 are official holidays, focusing on the Last Supper and the crucifixion of Christ, respectively. Holy Saturday (Sábado de Gloria) on April 19 leads into celebrations of the resurrection, and Easter Sunday (Domingo de Pascua) on April 20 celebrates the resurrection of Jesus with joy and communal gatherings.
Ruta De Las 7 Iglesias
On Friday, April 18, at 9 AM, the “Ruta de las 7 Iglesias” begins, offering a tour of Asunción’s most important churches aboard the Open Bus. This unique experience costs 50K Guaraníes and requires a prior reservation, starting at the Centro de Información Turística Costanera de Asunción. The tour allows participants to deepen their spiritual connection while exploring the city’s rich architectural heritage. An exciting activity during Semana Santa!
Special Culinary Experiences
A key aspect of Semana Santa in Paraguay is the rich culinary traditions accompanying the festivities. Families prepare delicious dishes such as chipa, a savoury cheese bread, and mbejú, a gluten-free pancake made from cassava and cheese.
Additionally, on Saturday, April 19, Capasa will open its doors for a guided tour from 9 AM to 12 PM. It will offer tastings of chipa, mbejú, and many types of rum. Visitors can also enjoy complimentary rum tastings. This event is open to the public, offering a wonderful opportunity to experience local flavours and craftsmanship.
Supermarket Discounts
The Paraguayan Chamber of Supermarkets (Capasu) has expanded its list of products discounted for Semana Santa. It runs from April 11 to 20, or until stocks last. The new list includes 67 items, ranging from pantry staples to cleaning products, but excludes fruits, vegetables, and meat as their producers did not participate in the promotion. The list has been updated from the initial 55 products to include essential items like eggs and high-turnover canned goods such as oil, corn, tuna, dairy drinks, flour, sugar, condensed milk, and cleaning products. Discounts will range from 20% to 40% across over 500 supermarkets associated with Capasu, aiming to reduce the cost of the basic family basket and improve accessibility for the population.
South American Adventist Leaders Impacting Semana Santa
In addition to local festivities, 34 leaders from the South American Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church arrived in Paraguay on April 11 to participate in the Semana Santa theme “Marks of Christ.” This group comprises pastors, institutional directors, and evangelists from Nuevo Tiempo. They will engage in evangelistic and service activities across various cities in the country. Its goal is to spread the message of salvation and hope.
Traditions And Processions
Throughout the week leading up to Easter Sunday, the streets of Paraguay come alive with colourful processions and religious ceremonies. Major cities host elaborate parades featuring beautifully adorned statues of Jesus, the Virgin Mary, and various saints. Participants often dress in traditional attire, carrying candles and flowers while singing hymns that echo through the streets. The solemnity of these processions offers a reflective experience for both participants and onlookers.
Community Spirit During Semana Santa
Semana Santa fosters a strong sense of community among Paraguayans. Local churches organise special masses and programs, inviting people to pray and reflect. Many communities also partake in reenactments of the Passion of Christ. It showcases their devotion through theatrical presentations that engage both participants and audiences.
In Paraguay, Semana Santa is much more than a series of religious events; it is a heartfelt expression of faith, culture, and unity. By continuing to uphold these cherished traditions and recognising their importance through public holidays, Paraguayans ensure that the spirit of Semana Santa remains alive for future generations.
