Halloween in Mexico is a blend of U.S. and Mexican traditions. Cultures meet and exchange ideas. This is also the case with Los Dias de los Muertos, in which some indigenous customs were combined with Spanish traditions.
La Noche de las Brujas
On October 31st, children begin to celebrate Halloween. In Mexico it is known as la noche de las brujas (night of the witches.) They are dressed in costume; however, choice in costume is limited when compared to the U.S. Most children dress as skeletons, devils, ghosts, witches or princesses.
When the children come to the door and knock, they do not say “trick or treat.” Instead, you are met with a chorus of children yelling, “queremos Halloween.” We want Halloween.
On this night, you will find merchants giving out candy in the centro (downtown.) In the plazas, the decorations for Halloween are often placed alongside the ofrendas (altars) for los dias de los muertos.
The Halloween festivities do not differ much from those in the U.S. with one major exception. Trick or Treating takes place for two to three nights. This varies by neighborhood, but you can count on at least two nights.
Los Dias de Los Muertos (Days of the Dead)
Los Dias de Los Muertos is a two day event. On November 1st, families typically gather at the graveside of the children that have died in the last year. This is All Saints Day. On November 2nd, All Souls Day, the families visit the graves of all loved ones. Some regions celebrate the event with more furor than other regions of Mexico.
If you have the chance to visit at this time of year, you will not be disappointed. Just make sure to stock some candy!
Nate Oster has been writing articles about holidays for the past two years. He also likes to write about men’s apparel, including the benefits of owning a 3 piece suit and why you should have a few Armani suits in your closet.
Celebrating Halloween in Mexico - A Different Tradition
Không có nhận xét nào:
Đăng nhận xét