Saint Blaise (San Blas) is Paraguay’s patron saint: according to colonial tradition, he became associated with the defense of the first settlements. Every February 3 there are Masses and processions in his honor, with the main celebration in Ciudad del Este, whose cathedral is dedicated to him, and festivities in other towns such as Itá and Valenzuela, including rodeo riding in some villages. It’s the height of summer: celebrations happen at night, with plenty of tereré (iced yerba mate).