'Beyond the Marigolds: A Vibrant Journey into Mexico's Day of the Dead Celebrations' - by KJS Chatrath

 

That is me partaking in the festivities at Zocalo, Mexico City, Mexico in 2018. 
 

I was lucky to time my last trip to Mexico in 2018 to coincide with the Day of the Dead festivities.

Day of the Dead Festivities in Mexico

The Day of the Dead, or Dia de los Muertos, is a significant religious holiday in Mexico, celebrated with great fervor particularly in smaller towns and cities. It is a celebration of life and continuity, with roots tracing back to some of Mexico's oldest civilizations including the Olmec, Zapotec, Maya, and Purépecha.

When is it Celebrated?

The Day of the Dead is traditionally celebrated on November 1 and 2, with November 1st dedicated to honoring deceased children and November 2nd for deceased adults. However, depending on the locality, other days such as October 31 or November 6 may also be included in the celebrations.

November 1 and 2 are the Traditional dates for the Day of the Dead celebrations

How is it Celebrated?

The celebrations involve setting up altars at homes and cemeteries, decorated with offerings such as candied skulls, bright orange marigolds (known as flor de muerto or Flower of the Dead), and other items. Families visit the graves of their loved ones, cleaning and decorating them. The specific ceremonies and customs can vary by region and town.

Regional Variations

In the Yucatán Peninsula, the Day of the Dead celebrations are known as Hanal Pixan, or 'feast for the souls'. Families prepare traditional dishes for the return of their ancestors and participate in evening processions. In the town of Pátzcuaro, the traditions differ depending on whether the deceased is a child or an adult.

International Recognition

 In 2008, Day of the Dead was added to UNESCO's list of Intangible Cultural Heritage

Popular Locations for Celebrations

The colonial city of Oaxaca and the ancient highland town of Pátzcuaro are particularly popular for their Day of the Dead celebrations, attracting many foreign visitors. Forward planning is vital for those wishing to experience the festivities in these locations.

Far from being a morbid event, the Day of the Dead is a joyful celebration of life and remembrance of past lives. It is a vibrant and colorful event, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Mexico.

Here are some photos taken by me. 

 

(All photos taken by me. Text based on information sourced from the internet and personal visits to Mexico. )


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