Author Archives: admin

Day of the Dead: Dia de Los Muertos

Mexican-Day-Of-The-Dead-Altar-8969

Mexican Day Of The Dead Altar

November 2nd
The Day of the Dead, unlike Halloween, is traditional throughout México and many other parts of Latin America, with origins that date back to the pre-Columbian period. Essentially, it is a time to celebrate friends and family who have passed away. November 2 is the official date, but remembrances are observed from October 31 – November 2.

 

Mexican-Day-of-The-Dead-Offering-4917

Calaveras de azúcar (candies in the shape of skulls)

During this time, families will often visit the gravesites of deceased relatives, or make ofrendas, “offerings” placed on small altars in their homes to honor the departed. The altars are often adorned with food or drinks favored by the lost loved one, as well as things like candles, photos, calaveras de azúcar (candies in the shape of skulls), pan de muerto (special Day of the Dead bread ) and cempasúchil flowers (Aztec marigolds). Catrina figures, female skeletons dressed in elaborately colorful costumes, are also a common sight during Day of the Dead celebrations, as well as being big sellers in many souvenir stores.

 

catrinas-day-of-the-dead-mexico

Catrina figures, female skeletons dressed in elaborately colorful costumes

Day of the Dead Catrina figurine. Photo Bigstock.com

Day of the Dead Catrina figurine. Photo Bigstock.com

First cruise ship arrives in Cabo since Hurricane Odile

October 3 was a special day in Los Cabos, when the first cruise ship since Hurricane Odile (September 14–15) arrived. Mexican officials Secretary of Tourism Claudia Ruiz Massieu and Fonatur Director General Hector Barraza Gómez were on hand to greet the ship and mark the occasion.