Day of the Dead Is Coming

Even though the Day of the Dead is not a legal holiday, it is without a doubt one of the most iconic and colorful celebrations in Mexico.  It is a little over two weeks away, and it is becoming obvious here in Mexico City that Day of the Dead is on its way.

Just around the corner from us there is a little sidewalk café that seats two life-size skeletons at one of its tables each year.

 Last Sunday, we walked through the "tianguis" (outdoor market) that is set up in the neighborhood.  There were several vendors selling Day of the Dead decorations and items to place on your "ofrenda", the altar that is set up to remember departed loved ones.

Candles shaped like skulls and marigold blossoms

The traditional candy skulls made of sugar or chocolate

A couple days ago I walked to the nearest public market in the adjacent neighborhood of "Colonia del Valle".  At this time of year there are stalls just outside the market building that sell all sorts of things for Day of the Dead and Halloween.  Some Mexicans are upset by the fact that the observance of Day of the Dead, a day to remember departed loved ones, is mingled with Halloween.  But nevertheless, the influence from north of the border is present.

A mish-mash of decorations

 

This stall sells skeleton figures in a variety of different attire.  There are skeletons dressed in regional Mexican garb, and there is even one dressed as a "lucha libre" wrestler.  In previous years I have bought a couple of these delightful figures for the apartment.  I have already put them out to welcome visitors to the apartment.

A large inflatable skeleton figure dressed as a  Mexican "charro"

 

And of course, there are plenty of marigolds, the flower whose pungent aroma is said to guide the souls of the dead home.