The Importance of Traditions: Día de los Muertos - Day of the Dead.
Traditions are a source of identity. They’re living proof of the past and our most incredible legacy: transmitted to us from past generations to help us understand where we come from and where we can feel at home.
When we think of traditions and festivities, México is undoubtedly the country that first comes to our mind, with all its bright colors and passionate music. On November 1st and 2nd, families in México prepare to welcome the souls of their deceased relatives, who temporarily return to the world of the living, spend time with them, and nourish themselves with the offers placed in the altars… Sounds a bit spooky, right?
Images by @unsplash
It’s actually quite the opposite.
In fact, Día de los Muertos (Day of The Dead) is a celebration of memory. It’s a ritual that privileges recollection over oblivion, reminding us that the people we loved are never truly gone, and that their presence is kept alive by our recollection of them.
Here are a few things you can do to celebrate Día de Los Muertos!
Set up an Ofrenda
Ofrendas are altars placed in honor of the deceased to guide their souls back to the world of the living on the Day of the Dead. Make your Ofrenda colorful, bright, and elaborate.
A few elements that can’t be missed are Cempasúchil Flowers, photos or portraits of the people remembered, crucifixes, traditional foods, and colorful paper decorations.
Make your own Sugar Skulls
Calaveras (skulls) are the most representative symbols of Día de Los Muertos. You can prepare sugar candies or skull-shaped cookies and decorate them with brightly colored icing. Once ready, display them on the altar as an offer to your deceased loved ones.
Host a Day of the Dead Feast
A typical sweet bread prepared with anise, orange, cinnamon and sugar. Pan de Muerto is usually round shaped, to symbolise the cycle of death and life.
Attend a Parade
Get your skull-inspired make ready, dress up like La Catrina, and prepare to join the many parades taking place all over the country!
Día de Muertos coincides with the beginning of the High Season in Tulum, and November is one of the best months to travel to Riviera Maya. Visiting during this period, you’ll be lucky enough to get a taste of this millenary tradition, that makes us rethink the meaning of death and honour our ancestors, who’s presence is still with us.
(1) https://www.history.com/topics/halloween/day-of-the-dead
(2) https://www.gob.mx/inafed/articulos/dia-de-muertos-tradicion-mexicana-que-trasciende-en-el-tiempo
(3) https://saberespoder.com/articles/education/como-se-celebra-el-dia-de-los-muertos
(4) https://www.dignitymemorial.com/support-friends-and-family/dia-de-los-muertos
DISCOVER MORE ON THE BLOG
