Earthy Family We live in a time of great change and an increasing need for a celebration of diversity. It is our goal to
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Welcome to MexicoMexico - this fun, easy to read book is a family-oriented look into the beautiful culture of
FESTIVALS OF MEXICOOn virtually every day of the year, there is a festival going on somewhere in Mexico. Mexico has a rich tradition of religious and secular celebrations, and all are enjoyed with a vitality and vigor hard to match. The colors and the music in these celebrations can be spectacular, and of course, delicious comida (food) is always present. There are also dozens of festivals throughout the country dedicated to a specific kind of food, and several festivals devoted to regional arts and crafts. Mexico also hosts one of the largest performing arts festivals in Latin America. El Dia de los Muertos Often called los Dias de los Muertos (The Days of the Dead) because 2 days (November 1st and 2nd) are actually recognized. This Mexican holiday honours those who have passed away with decorations, alters (ofrendas) and special foods and feasts. It is believed that the barrier between the world of the living and the world of the dead is most easily crossed at this time of the year and that loved ones who have passed away can return to visit with their friends and families. On October 31st the gravesites of loved ones who have passed away are cleaned up and decorated and a feast is shared. November 1st is All Saints’ Day and is dedicated to los angelitos (little children) who have passed away while All Souls’ Day, on November 2nd, is dedicated to those adults who have died. Los Dios de los Muertos is a joyful family time used to remember and honour those who have died. It is a time to tell stories of those who have passed on, remembering their deeds, talents, and gifts. It is a time of celebration. Skeleton and skull figurines (calaveras) adorn shop windows and homes, Zenspasuchitl (a variety of Marigold) are lavishly used to decorate and special dishes are prepared to share with the living and the dead. Special alters called ofrendas are featured in homes and businesses to honour departed loved ones and items such as flowers, wreaths, breads, sweets, candles and gifts are proudly and lovingly offered to departed members of the family and community. Ideas for Celebrating: Los Dios de los Muertos is a wonderful time to remember and celebrate your loved ones who have passed away. Our friends and family members really do live on in memory and those who knew them or just wished they knew them will love to hear stories of someone you cared about. This is a great way to connect children to their relatives and ancestors and celebrate the lives of those they come from. Celebrate lives lived, the successes accomplished, as well as the gifts handed down. Create an ofrenda to a departed loved one. Prepare a favoured dish or sweet, offer favourite flowers and perhaps treasured items. Pets who were favoured by departed ones are reported to feel a connection to these alters and you likely will to. The loved one will definitely visit you – in memory at the very least, and that can be a special moment indeed. Share a feast. Prepare the favoured dishes of your departed loved one, set an extra spot at the table and share a meal. This is a great time to talk about and celebrate your dearly departed. Christmas in Mexico – “Feliz Navidad!” Learn more about the festivals of Mexico with our easy to read, fun eBook; Find out about Traditional Town Ferias, Semana Santa, Independence Day, The Day of the Dead, New Year’s Day, Three Kings Day, Candlemass, Cinco de Mayo, Fiesta de San Antonio de Padua, Guelaguetza, Christmas Street Processions, Navidad (Christmas) As well as the festivals of Mexico, this wonderful Mexico eBook includes:
Ideal for:
Great Sites on Mexico: Aztec Gardens - A guide to the pre-Hispanic plants and foods of Mexico, with ancient recipes from Mesoamerica. A great resource for the teacher, student, amateur, ethno botanist, chief, or anyone interested in the plants and foods of Mexico and Mesoamerica. Festival of Mexico Folk Arts - Mexican folk art information, Mexican toys and games including loteria cards, Mexican culture and folk art buying tips, Folk art from Chiapas, Oaxaca, Huichol folk art, and more!
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Mexican Independence Day
Day of the Dead
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