Mexican Celebrations
by Richard Monk
When people think of Mexican
celebrations, they often think of Cinco de Mayo. My friend, there are many
more Mexican celebrations to enjoy than just this celebration of a military
victory over the French.
Mexican Celebrations
Mexico is a diverse and ancient
country, full of many different traditions and celebrations. The native
culture of the Mayans, mixed with the Spanish and even German cultures
of those who have ruled Mexico make for a combination of holiday styles
and reasons to celebrate that are unparalleled in other countries. The
predominant Catholic religion also plays a part in the many different Mexican
celebrations, and taking a trip to Mexico during one of these holiday times
will make for a most memorable vacation.
One of the oddest (at least
to those outside of Mexico) celebrations in this country is the Day of
the Dead (El Dia de Los Muertos). Taking place over two days on November
1st and 2nd, this holiday is used to celebrate those who have passed away
and other ancestors. In Oaxaca, Mexico, this Mexican celebration is especially
important. Starting on noon on November 1st, families flock to the cemetery
where Mariachis play music for the dead and items and food are brought
to the graves of the deceased to honor them. All of the favorites of the
dead relatives are included, and many families set up altars in their homes
to honor their ancestors. Started with a religious picture (usually of
the Virgin of Guadeloupe), these altars also include pictures of the dead
along with offerings of favorite foods and even items such as liquor and
cigars.
The
Day of the Dead celebrations last two days with the first day and night
being primarily for the children and the second being for the adults. Candles
and incense burn all through the towns and cemeteries, and a marriage of
the pagan roots of this ceremony and the Catholic traditions that were
infused into the holiday can be seen throughout the ceremony. Mexican celebrations
are extremely happy occasions. Even this one that celebrates the dead is
not a scary or dark. Rather, it's an interesting festival that helps people
to commune with those who have left them and to come to terms with death
while giving the process the respect it deserves.
Many Mexican celebrations
spring from religious tradition, such as the Day of the Dead, Christmas
pageantry and Easter passion plays. Visiting Mexico during one of these
times can help to give tourists a great sense of what the country and its
inhabitants are truly like, while also giving visitors a chance and excuse
to party.
About the Author
Richard Monk is with Facts
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about everything. Visit us to read more about Mexico.
