El Cid Vacations Club Explores Mazatlán’s Day of the Dead
Die de Muertos or Day of the Dead is one of the most interesting holidays in the world, and the best way to experience this event is through El Cid Vacations Club. In most cultures, death is meant as mourning, and thinking about the past. However, in Mexican culture, death is celebrated as a part of life, providing a surreal atmosphere during the Day of the Dead celebrations. Celebrated every November 1st and 2nd, it comes the day after Halloween, creating a three-day event that marks All Hallows’ Eve, Hallowmas, and All Souls’ Day. During this three-day span, families will travel to cemeteries of loved ones and create altars on which to celebrate the life of the deceased. Decorating them with photographs, food, drink, and items loved by the passed family member creates the sense that their spirit is still alive, a moment that is treasured in Mexican culture. It’s believed that the offerings encourage visits by the souls of the spirit, and that they hear the prayers directed to them.
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The celebration begins in the heart of Centro Historico on November 1st, as eccentric costumed crowds begin a parade throughout MazatlĂĄn, sometimes dressing as full skeletons and other costumes associated with death. If you decide to attend, take the time to draw skull makeup on your face, it will make you blend in with the crowd, and gives you a chance to take part in the surreal atmosphere. Make sure to stop by bakeries, as they create delicious desserts for the festivities, including the famous skull candies that often decorate the town and altars for the dead. November 1st Is a day dedicated to the passing of children, and families will often buy small toys and trinkets to place on the tombstones of children that have passed. Mexico reveres the image of La Catrina, a skeleton symbolizing death and the afterworld. The joyous depiction of La Catrina is part of the Mexican belief that no dead soul likes to be thought of as sadly, and the afterlife is a joyous place. This is the reason for the celebration and overall happy mood throughout the Day of the Dead celebrations. The Mexican belief that the afterlife is just another step a person takes is one that fuels the entire three days, and can be sensed throughout the festivities.
November 2nd is dedicated to adults that have passed away, and is the final day of the three-day celebration. This is the truly big parade, where all of the floats and surreal atmosphere come to a head. Grab a spot on a balcony and watch the procession, as skeletons toss out candy and sweets, and embrace the macabre. El Cid Vacations Club is the best way to experience Die de Muertos, or any celebration in Mazatlán. El Cid Vacations Club offers tremendous benefits and discounts to its members, and gives them the chance to see all of Mazatlán, at their own pace. So to see Mazatlán, or any other spot on the globe, it’s a no doubter to use El Cid Vacations Club. Happy travels!
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