“The souls of the dearly departed have a date with their loved ones who are still alive.” – Hanal Pixán
Our October edition is usually the month with the strongest theme that runs throughout the magazine, and this year is no exception. Hanal Pixán is the very Yucatecan version of México’s beloved Day of the Dead. Our traditions have much in common with the rest of México, but the Maya influence on this important time of the year makes Hanal Pixán a completely original celebration.
Our cover photo and page 1 cover story is all about the big celebration organized by the Ayuntamiento of Mérida, Festival de las Ánimas, which takes place from October 23 to 30. And on page 4 you’ll get all the background on Hanal Pixán! We’ll tell you everything you need to know about the activities that take place in homes and public places from October 31 to November 2.
If you are fascinated by our traditions and decide you want to make your own altar, on page 6 we tell you where to buy the essentials. And on page 8 we introduce you to some deep and mysterious places revered by the Maya: five of the many caves in our state. With accessibility that ranges from easy to extreme, there’s something for everyone!
Speaking of mysterious places, the Maya believed that the cenotes of the Yucatán peninsula were sacred portals to the underworld. There was a complex hierarchy of gods known as the Lords of Xibalbá. Read all about it. And if you’re ready for even more mystery, and the idea of a ghost town appeals to your sense of adventure, you must go to the town of Misnebalam, only 15 minutes from Mérida. The story here.
Yucatán Today is happy to accompany you on your mystery tour of our beautiful state!
Juanita Stein
Editor
[email protected]
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