Annual Holiday Masa Pilgrimage: Thousands Flock to Amapola Market in Downey for Tamale Ingredients

Holiday Tradition in Downey

• 🎄 A holiday tradition signaling the end of the year is underway in Downey, with thousands flocking to Amapola Market.
• ⏰ People are lining up hours before the store opens to get fresh masa for preparing tamales for Christmas.

The Annual Masa Distribution

• 🚶‍♀️ The line for masa distribution completely wraps around the market, with some people waiting for hours.
• 📍 One customer, traveling from Anaheim, has been waiting since 7:30 AM, emphasizing that nothing beats the flavor of this particular market.
• 💰 Customers are purchasing significant amounts, with one woman planning to buy 30 pounds of masa for her family.

Family and Community Aspect

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Preparing tamales is a family tradition that brings unity and provides an opportunity for families to sit, work, and talk together.
• ⏳ The process of making tamales with the purchased masa takes about 4 to 5 hours, highlighting the commitment involved.
• 😋 The deliciousness of the masa is a key reason for the annual pilgrimage, with people eager to make both savory and sweet tamales.