A tradition rooted deep in the native Mexican belief, I’ve never understood why Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead) isn’t celebrated more widely. I mean really…it seems our culture here in the U.S. is too shy to talk about death, much less celebrate it, whereas the Mexican’s embrace it. November 1st is the day to welcome the souls of children and November 2nd welcomes the souls of adults. To celebrate, alters are built consisting of photos of the deceased along with flowers, candles and perhaps their favorite food or beverage.
As soon as it was advertised that Mano a Mano, the non-profit organization here in NYC dedicated to celebrating Mexican culture, would be building an alter at the St. Mark’s Church in-the-Bowery…it was added to my “must experience” list!
the most perfect evening…golden light…golden leaves…and warm fall breezes…
(have no idea why it looks like we’re having an earthquake in the background…)
held within St. Mark’s churchyard and cemetery…
with fabulous fresh Mexican food…
candied skulls…not only as a treat for the children, but for the alter as well…
costumes and dancers…
and then…
the opening ceremony…
to be continued…so stay tuned!
By not talking about death we might think that he is not finding us …the great fear of the unknown.
Wonderful pictures-especially the last one.The tattoos,the skull and those feathers!
Thanks for sharing these photos. Next year you might enjoy some of the festivities at the Merchants House Museum.
Thanks Carol! I will!
Love it!
I’m absolutely tuned in:)
I so agree about the American view of death and how we grow up being so private/secret about it. I remember being astonished by huge store-front windows in Guatemala, showcasing caskets. Why not????? I’ll be eager to see more of what you saw, Robin….
The Catholic Church celebrates All Souls Day on November 1st every year. It is considered a Holy Day of Obligation and a full Mass is celebrated to remember those who have gone before us. It is a beautiful ceremony. Great Post. Thanks for sharing. XoXo MORE!
I never heard about the celebration. Great set of pictures. Love the bottom one (and the skull candies)
Thank you for sharing, eager to see the rest.
Hugs.
I’d wish we’d have more traditions like this … Thank you for showing all this to us. Yes, and the skulls are perfect!
Thanks everyone! Yes, this will certainly be an event that I will continue to attend!