Nuestra Señora del Carmen

(Our Lady of Mount Carmel)

📍 Address: Mount Carmel Catholic Church, 157 South Eugenio St, Hågat, Guam 96915

ABOUT OUR LADY OF MOUNT CARMEL

Dates: July 11, 2026

Location: Hågat (Agat)

Time: 5:00 PM

Faith on the Southern Coast: The Fiesta of Hågat

Located along the beautiful southwestern shoreline of Guam, the historic village of Hågat (formerly Agat) celebrates the feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. As the gateway to the deep south, Hågat boasts a rich maritime history and a community known for its fierce resilience. This mid-summer fiesta is a vibrant celebration that honors the Blessed Virgin Mary under her title as the patroness of the Carmelite order, drawing faithful from all over the island to the ocean-breezed village.

For visitors, the Hågat fiesta offers an incredible blend of spiritual solemnity and lively coastal culture. It is an excellent opportunity to experience the renowned warmth of southern Guam while enjoying spectacular sunset views over the Philippine Sea.

THE HISTORY OF THE PARISH

Hågat is one of Guam's oldest villages, originally established in the 1680s during the Spanish era. The original village and its church were tragically decimated during the intense bombardment of World War II, as Hågat was one of the primary landing beaches for the U.S. forces during the liberation of Guam in 1944.

Following the war, the village was rebuilt at a new location slightly further down the coast. The construction of the new Mount Carmel Catholic Church became a profound symbol of the community's rebirth and enduring faith. Today, the church, with its distinctive architecture and proximity to the ocean, stands as a testament to the survival and strength of the Hågat people. The devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel is specifically associated with the Brown Scapular, a sacramental garment worn by the faithful as a sign of Mary's maternal protection—a fitting symbol for a village that has weathered so much history.

FIESTA TRADITIONS: COASTAL BREEZES AND DEVOTION

The celebration in Hågat takes full advantage of the village's coastal geography and close-knit community.

The Sunset Procession

Beginning at 5:00 PM as the harsh afternoon sun begins to soften, the procession of Our Lady of Mount Carmel is a visually striking event. Devotees process through the streets of the village, often catching the cool ocean breeze coming off the nearby marina and beaches. The sound of traditional CHamoru hymns mixed with the backdrop of the southern coastline makes this one of the most serene and beautiful processions on the island.

The Village "Gupot" (Party)

Because Hågat is a prominent coastal village with a thriving local marina, the fiesta feast is deeply tied to the ocean.

• Bounty of the Sea: You can expect an incredible spread of fresh, local seafood. The tables frequently feature fresh catch from local fishermen, including Sashimi, fried reef fish, and rich seafood Kådu (soup).

• Southern Comfort: Alongside the seafood, Hågat is famous for its hearty southern cooking and agriculture (the village is also home to the island's annual Mango Festival). The "Gupot" is characterized by overflowing plates, live island music, and a deeply welcoming atmosphere that invites visitors to sit, eat, and stay a while.