Day of the Dead Celebration 2016
Two days are given over annually, all over Mexico to remembering departed relatives, friends and famous people. November 1is dedicated to the memory of departed children, while November 2 id dedicated to adults who have passed on in a celebration, unique to Mexico, that laughs at death. Families work for days decorating graves and gather to share memories and enjoy food and beverages that were the favorites of the departed. On the evening of November 1 we visited the panteon/cemetary in our village of Ajijic. Many of the graves were extravagantly decorated, others more simply, or not at all.
Altars are created to honor the deceased, by families, friends, and the municipal government. This one built in Chapala’s city hall. The altars must be created and taken down within 24 hours.
A giant catrina, Lady Death, reigns over the festivities
Mexico’s casual, even fatalistic, view of death is evident during the celebration.
Day of the Dead attire can be elaborate but, traditionally, is not ghoulish as in America’s celebration of Halloween. No hatchets in skulls, etc.
Celebrating the death of fraud and corruption which, unfortunately, wishful thinking at this juncture
A young mother earning some extra money by selling altar decorations.
Lovers between the giant piggy bank sculptures
E elegantly attired live carinas stand watch over their altars which she will explain, (often in English) if asked.
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An example of the fascinating amalgamation of Christian and pre-Hispanic traditions.
Cemeteries in Mexico are not desolate or scary places, especially during DoD celebrations
A lost child is remembered
Vendors set up stalls outside the cemetery and sell food and commemorative decorations
Mexico & Beyond 