In Mexico City, every January, people gather to have their broken baby Jesus figurines repaired in time for Candlemas, a Catholic celebration on 2nd February that marks the end of the Christmas season.
While it may cost more to restore these figures than to buy new ones, many families prefer to fix their cherished figurines due to the sentimental value they hold, especially when the figures were gifts or have been passed down for years.
As reported by the Mail Online, common damages include missing hands, noses, or even entire heads, but for many, the repair is worth it.
María Sánchez Arena, 61, who helps with the restoration, told the outlet it’s not about buying a new figurine but the memories attached to the one they already have.
These figurines are typically displayed in Nativity scenes during the Christmas season and are taken to church to be blessed on Candlemas.
In Mexico City, workers are busy repairing the figurines ahead of the 2nd February celebration, as families prepare to honor the tradition of restoring and blessing their beloved baby Jesus statues.