The Blessing of the Animals has been a part of Olvera Street since its founding in 1930, but its practice dates back to the 4th century, when San Antonio De Abad was named the patron saint of the animal kingdom and began to bless animals to promote good health.
In the early days of the pueblo, the priest from La Placita Church would bless the livestock of the farmers to keep them healthy and productive, benefiting the entire community. The practice continued when Olvera Street opened in 1930, but the animals were a little different. No longer was the blessing limited to cows, horses, and goats, but the blessing began to include all animals, especially pets. Many four-legged friends are seen as members of the family, and the blessing is open to all. Whether they live on land, in water, or fly in trees, all animals are welcome to receive a blessing from Archbishop Jose Gomez.
*While the blessing is rooted in Catholic tradition, you do not have to be Catholic to participate. ALL ANIMALS, AND HUMANS, ARE WELCOME
Upcoming Events
Free
The Downtown Santa Monica Farmers market is widely recognized as one of the largest and most diverse Certified Farmers’ Markets in the nation. Local residents, out-of-town visitors, celebrities, and many of Los Angeles’ best-known chefs and restaurants, can be found shopping in this location which features over 60 California farms.
Free
Community Band with Logan Hone is held outside in Hermon Park most Saturday, as a series of creative musical sessions and concerts. Musicians of all skill levels, ages, & backgrounds are invited to join the band in learning an eclectic mix of music, including jazz, Latin, folk, & original material. Participation is free. Bring your instrument, water, and snacks. Percussion instruments are provided.
Donation-based
Join Cultural Treasures of South LA & The Tree Yoga Cooperative for a fun plant-based food demo, story-telling activities, and a yoga & sound bath meditation suitable for all bodies and experience levels. To register for The Tree’s donation-based classes on June 3rd @ 8:30am, 9:30am, & 11am visit: thetreeyogacoop.org/studio-classes.
Free
Lively Saturdays with live music, food vendors, and fresh produce, every week from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Owensmouth Ave (between Sherman Way & Wyandotte Street)
FREE
Registration Day: Saturday, March 4, 2023 Time: 9am – 12pm Saturday Classes: March 11 – April 22, 2023 6 week session (Schedule subject to change) * There will be no Saturday classes on April 8. Special Art Workshop and Egg Hunt is scheduled for this day. FREE for the entire family! Classes include: S-1 Drawing, Cartooning and Animation In this class students will learn the funamentals of drawing such as line, form and perspective to apply in observational drawing…
