Passage of the Souls

They say that if you want to have contact with the “other side”, you should set aside the day…or rather the night…of October 28, 2011, in the neighborhood of la Ermita de Santa Isabel where the Ayuntamiento organizes its traditional “Passage of the Souls” from the General Cemetery to La Ermita on Calle 66, starting at 6:30 pm.

The main guests are the souls to whom the offerings of the traditional Hanal Pixan are dedicated, both children and adults, although you are also welcome to attend and share the food offered on this magical night.

Once again the aroma of the Dzidzilché flower and the incense, and the flavors of the pibes, the yuca and the mazapan will innundate the Passage of the Souls; and will feature the participation of the citizens, both neighbors and organized groups, as well as the schools and municipal departments.

One of the most notable details about this event is the lighting provided by dozens of candles of various colors, symbolizing the path we will all have to take one day.

The program is highlighted by the pilgrimage of 200 boys and girls whose faces are painted with the mask of Death, and dressed in regional costume, and who throw flower petals on the path as they walk from the General Cemetery to Ermita. In this way they mark the Sac-be, or sacred path, to invite the souls to leave the holy countryside and enjoy the food prepared for them.

Various authorities and dignitaries will do a tour of all the altars of this mystic Passage of the Souls.

Preserving this tradition allows us to keep our departed loved ones in mind, since they have paved the way for the journey we must all make one day.

The cemeteries of Merida will remain open for 24 hours during Hanal Pixan, from Oct. 29 to Nov. 2.

Recommended reading
- Day of the Dead
- Altars