Azucena Gollaz, CI’s communications coordinator in Mexico, captured these riveting images of Day of the Dead ornaments and activities in honor of the country’s colorful holiday.
The dead come from all walks of life … and, in Mexico, there’s a figure to symbolize each and every one.
During Día de los Muertos, or “Day of the Dead,” skeletal figurines known as calacas serve as both somber and humorous reminders that life goes on.
Catrinas are one of the most popular figures. They represent the Aztec goddess Mictecacihuatl, the “Lady of the Dead.” She was the queen of the underworld and keeper of bones, who is believed to have presided over ancient festivals honoring the dead.
These days, the celebration occurs on November 1 and 2 in connection with the Catholic holidays of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. Tombstones and altars are carefully adorned with skulls, flowers and possessions, as well as favorite foods and drinks of the departed.
Orange marigolds are sold on every street corner. These Flores de Muerto (Flowers of the Dead) are used to attract the souls of the deceased.
Family members go to great lengths to welcome the return of los fieles difuntos – “the faithful deceased” – from their graves during this special time of year.
Young and old gather at gravesites to picnic or simply pay their respects. They recount memorable moments and anecdotes about their lost loved ones to capture their true spirit.
It’s as much a celebration of life as it is an acknowledgement of death …
... although, the vacancy left by lost relatives never disappears completely.
“We have to prepare everything for the dead to come and enjoy the day with us,” explains Esperanza, a volunteer at one of our Jalisco field locations. “It’s important to let them know we still remember them.”
“We put out what they liked,” says Esperanza’s granddaughter, Alexa. “Bread, soda and also nail polish, because my great-grandmother liked to paint her nails.”
Day of the Dead is a bittersweet holiday, to be sure. And like the sugar and chocolate calaveritas that entice its celebrants, it’s a time to savor the richness of life … in hopes of overpowering the bitter end of death.
