Mahony’s blessed menagerie

In recognition of all the love that our four-legged friends provide, Olvera Street has hosted an annual Blessing of the Animals ceremony since the 1930s. Continuing a Mexican tradition, the ceremony was originally held on Jan. 17, the feast of San Antonio de Abad. But in recent years, the blessing has been held on the day before Easter. On Saturday, Cardinal Roger M. Mahony will bless the animals as they go by in a colorful procession. All Angelenos are invited to bring their pets. Over the years, cows, cats, dogs, snakes, pigs, sheep, goats, donkeys, horses, opossums, hamsters, birds, monkeys, llamas, camels, chickens and peacocks have all participated in the blessing.

Blessing of the Animals, Olvera Street, El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, 125 Paseo de la Plaza, L.A. 2 p.m. Saturday. Free. (213) 680-2525.