This Life and the Other
Photos: EFE, Shutterstock
The Great Parade
A few years ago, the Mexican capital launched a Day of the Dead Parade that brings together cultural manifestations from around the country. La Calavera Garbancera (Elegant Skull), a character created by Mexican engraver and cartoonist José Guadalupe Posada in 1873, is the star of the show. Muralist Diego Rivera re-baptized the character as La Catrina.
Altars to the Dead
México’s Day of the Dead celebrations have been designated an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and altars to the deceased are the most representative aspect of the celebrations. Water, candles, Day of the Dead bread, food, flowers, and liquor are placed on the altars since tradition holds that deceased relatives visit the world of the living every November 2. The celebration has its roots in the worship of Mictecacihuatl, the Mexica (Aztec) goddess of death.
©EFE/Mario Guzmán
The Ñatitas
Bolivia’s Festival of the Ñatitas (human skulls), with roots in Tiwanaku culture, is celebrated every November 8 to thank the deceased for their protection and favors granted. Thousands of people gather in the La Paz General Cemetery with the skulls, which are offered wine, food, cigarettes, flowers, and coca leaves.
©EFE/Martín Alipaz
Colorful Kites
Of Maya origin, the Festival of Sumpango or Giant Kites, is a cultural heritage of Guatemala and has become a tourist attraction in Santiago Sacatepéquez. Inspired by the güipiles (embroidered blouses) worn by the women, the kites are believed to prevent evil spirits from disturbing the peaceful rest of the deceased on the Day of the Dead.
Halloween
Halloween has its roots in ancient Celtic ceremonies that celebrated the end of summer and the harvest; it was thought that spirits returned to walk the earth on those dates. The Celts would keep their houses dark and dress in funereal garb in an effort to go unnoticed by the spirits.
