Why celebrate the Day of the Dead in Isla Mujeres?
One of the most enriching experiences that come with the act of traveling is to discover new worlds that, beyond their natural attractions, stand out for their unique and complex cultural wealth. Isla Mujeres inherits many customs and traditions from Yucatan and Quintana Roo that are intermingled with the pre-Hispanic past of the area, achieving as a result that regional touch that attracts travelers so much. Among the music, food and typical costumes, anyone is delighted with what the Riviera Maya has to offer, and what better way to enjoy it all than with the same celebration?
The Day of the Dead is, without a doubt, one of the oldest traditions in all of Mexico, considered a tradition rooted since ancient times that has not lost strength even after the passage of time. A perfect example of Mexican culture and its particular way of looking at death, with the official date on November 2, but when accompanied by festivals of great renown the celebration “comes to life” on October 30. Not to be confused with Halloween, although the festivities happen almost simultaneously, they are two separate celebrations with different characteristics that make them unique in their own way. Within Isla Mujeres, as well as throughout Mexico, it is very common to see Halloween celebrations of all kinds, but one of the traditions that has never been left aside is the celebration of the Day of the Dead.
Despite being small, Isla Mujeres celebrates every year the Day of the Dead with all the enthusiasm it deserves. One of the main events within this Caribbean island is the Festival of the Living to the Dead, referring to the original tradition of the celebration that seeks to pay tribute to those loved ones who passed away. However, hotels like Mía Reef Isla Mujeres wants to celebrate this special date with you. Seeking to share the magic of this tradition, the hotel organizes, from the 1st to the 11th of November, an event that will expose you to the Day of the Dead. During this great event, you will see people dressed as skulls and catrinas, as well as being able to build an altar with colorful decorations that do their best work to celebrate death in a lively and joyful way instead of terrifying one. Cook your own “pan de muerto” and be part of a festivity with interesting and attractive activities in the framework of such a traditional celebration for Mexicans.
Be amazed by the picturesque details that create the Day of the Dead in Isla Mujeres, such as cempasúchil flowers, sugar skulls, candles of all sizes and colors, and photos of the deceased to whom they pay tribute to and celebrate the life they left behind. In addition, Mía Reef puts at your disposal one of the widest gastronomic offerings of the year where you can try tamales, mole, pumpkin sweets and the famous “pan de muerto” (bread of the dead).
Going into those deep details about different cultures is what gives us the privileged opportunity to expand our personal world. Take advantage of your stay in Isla Mujeres during this season and be part of various free events open to the general public in order to preserve, and promote one of the most respected practices in the country that result in nights of color, gastronomy, and tradition.