Bolivia celebrates San Roque with cultural festivities and dog blessings

Bolivia is celebrating the feast of San Roque, a tradition deeply rooted in religious and cultural history. In Tarija, the festivities are recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The celebration honors San Roque of Montpellier, a saint traditionally associated with the protection of the sick and the prevention of epidemics.

Due to a legend where a dog provided food to the saint while he was ill, the day is also celebrated as a day for pets. In La Paz, the Catholic Church is organizing special masses and blessings for dogs at various temples. Throughout the country, municipalities and animal shelters are marking the occasion with vaccination drives, adoption fairs, and pet-related community events.