In order to celebrate one of the most representative, significant, and nostalgic traditions of the year (Day of the Dead), Mérida has presented the 2024 edition of its traditional Festival of the Souls, where you will be able to enjoy a wide variety of activities, from catrina parades and bike rides to the emblematic tradition of Hanal Pixán. Here are the details:
For the Mayan culture, Hanal Pixán (food of the souls) is one of the most important ceremonies and festivities of the year because the souls of those who have already visited the underworld return to their homes to visit their loved ones and enjoy their favorite foods.
And although this happens on a spiritual level, families take care of receiving and honoring them with flowers, candles, and other objects, in what we know as offerings. This celebration takes place from October 31 to November 2, with the dates divided as follows:
- October 31: “U Hanal Palal” – dedicated to deceased children
- November 1: “U Hanal Nucuch Uinicoob” – dedicated to deceased adults
- November 2: “U Hanal Pixanoob” – dedicated to all deceased (both children and adults)
Fortunately, these traditions are still alive, and Mérida stands out as one of the Mayan cities where this tradition is best celebrated, as its Festival of the Souls is held every year, which, in addition to the activities already mentioned, also includes others where residents, visitors, and more can participate.
For the 2024 edition, the Festival will be held from Saturday, October 26 to November 3. And you will find activities for all tastes, ages, and even for pets.
What activities will be taking place?
October 26:
- Catrina Parade (Paseo de Montejo) – 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Presentation of various Mexican scenes performed by artists characterized as catrinas to commemorate the traditions of other states in our country.
- Pixán Paalal
October 27:
- Inauguration of the Monumental Altar (Plaza Grande) – 6:00 PM
- Altar dedicated to the deceased, 16 meters by 4 meters high. Presentation and explanation of the altar to authorities and the general public.
- Mucbipollo Fair
- Pixan Pee´k
- Pixan Pee´k Walk, pet-friendly market (let’s play obstacles for small breeds, your furry friend’s trick, the coolest outfit runway, dance with your dog and win the hoop) altar display, mobile sterilization unit, photo spot, and Cuxum show.
October 28:
- Vaquería de las Ánimas
- Play: No me asusta el Pixán
October 29:
- Paseo de las Ánimas in Caucel
- Pixán Paalal
- Mayan stories and legends of the underworld
October 30:
- Mayan stories and legends of the underworld
- Ride of the Souls with the Cicloturixes (Parque de la Ermita) – 8:00 PM
- Guided tour of the general cemetery
October 31:
- Pixán Koonol
- Candle spots and underworld recreations
- Paseo de las Ánimas (General Cemetery) – 6:00 PM
- Celebrate the arrival of the souls to the world of the living in this representation of the exit and procession from the Mayan worldview, accompanied by an altar display and artistic events.
- Pok Ta Pok in the underworld (General Cemetery) – 6:00 PM
- Representation of the ancient Mayan ball game
November 1:
- Mysterious Path of the Souls
- Offering delivery at the Monumental Altar
- Pixán Paalal
- Videomapping at the Cathedral
November 2:
- Mexican Night
- Catrina Parade
- Biciruta de Ánimas
November 3:
- Musical Show “Coco” (Parque del Alemán) – 7:00 PM
- Broadway-style musical show full of magic and color.
Source: Donde Ir
