Refer China: READ ： The Culture of Mexico the Beautiful ： The Day of the Dead

Another fine article written by guest writer Daniel Otero, expat based in Changsha. Want to write for us too?

BY DANIEL OTERO

WNIC GUEST WRITER

With movies like "Coco", years ago it brought to life what is the "Day of the Dead" (Dia de los muertos) for Mexicans in their culture and what is to remember loved ones; therefore, it is a reflection to never forget them! This movie became an international blockbuster, and this piece is not to talk about the movie. It is to talk about the impact of the Day of the Dead in international society, how cultures transcend barriers and there are no borders on how we love the living and those whom have passed in our collective memory.

The Day of the Dead in perspective teaches others about Mexico and how special it is to love ones family, keep them close, cherish those around us while in life and comprehend that even when people have passed away, they are never forgotten! Mexicans do their best to keep these friends and family members in their heart. "Mexico the beautiful" (Mejico lindo) with its traditions has transcended cultures with the beauty of its people, its rich heritage for all to enjoy, the food and especially this version of what is the truest form to be loved in this unique style of a "Mexican Halloween"--but without the fear or scariness of it! However, it is something which is felt in a deeply personal way.

Since this celebration goes back further than any Halloween tradition and it's celebrated during a period of three days (31^stOctober to the 2^nd of November). And this is how Mexican culture has travelled around the world, because it isn't only about honoring the dead and being sad, but enjoying life with those who surround us! The Day of the Dead holds unique value when people dress-up, wear skeletal make-up and dresses.

Don't get me wrong, people do visit cemeteries in Mexico and the United States to lay flowers, clean the grave sites and place food in remembrance of those long lost! Then, again, after this has been done, there is a wonderful party (sometimes parades) of traditional music (Mariachi and Rancheras), dances (styled in the Cumbia lyrics and movement), foods (tamales, "pan de muerto" - a sweet bread made for those particular days, tacos, burritos, "pico de gallo" - a lovely condiment in Mexican cuisine of tomatoes, onions and peppers, mole - chocolate sauce, "refritos" - re-fried beans and "arroz" - yellow rice). It is a party for the senses in tastes, sounds and what one can see to understand that not all in life is tragic: but on the flip-side of things, life can be sweet when enjoyed with the right people and company.

To be perfectly honest, if you haven't been to Mexico or you haven't celebrated it with friends and family in Tex-Mex culture (area between the southwestern United States, Texas and Mexico), you really don't know what you are missing!

History & Traditions:

The Day of the Dead in one form or another has been celebrated throughout Mexico for the better part of 3,000 years. It began as a Mesoamerican tradition with the Aztecs, Olmec, and Nahua groups/cultures in that area of Mexico and possibly throughout Central America. Before the Spanish Colonization, it was a dedication to the goddess "Mictecacihualt" or Lady of the Dead. It wasn't only dedicated in her honor, but it went further with offerings for this particular deity and for those families whom had lost a loved one in the past or recently.

With Spain's colonization of Mexico in the Sixteenth-Century, this indigenous practice was incorporated/mixed in with Catholicism and celebrated during All Saints' Day (1^st November) and All Souls' Day (2^nd November). And here, the families would gather (and still do) at the cemetery to build/place an altar to give "offerings" (ofrendas) to the dead. Basically, all the foods, possessions and goodies the deceased person enjoyed in life.

This ancient tradition which is still practiced today reflects a deep-respect for the closeness of family and respect for those deceased--to never be forgotten.

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In conclusion:

Day of the Dead is more than a celebration to those who have passed on. It is furthermore, a celebration of life between beloved family members and friends. For those wanting to celebrate it here in China, and haven't done so before in Mexico or southwestern United States, find a Spanish-Mexican or expat establishment who enjoys celebrating it!

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RedLionPub红狮乐吧

With that said, here in Changsha there is the "Red Lion Pub" and its owner, Damion Braithwaite enjoys throwing these kinds of parties, dances, and celebratory activities every year for adults and children alike in celebration of this very-special event/day. Why not experience something different in cultural heritage with languages, foods, costumes, drinks, music and dances? Why don't you? Contact him and let me know how it went! Enjoy and regards... D.