Modern Maya Festivals

Hanal Pixan - Day of the Dead

Hanal Pixan means "a feast for all souls". The Day of the Dead is a mix of Christian and Maya elements. On October 31st, souls arrive to visit their family and enjoy the festivities. An offering of food is prepared according the the preferences of the honored departed. In the early morning on November 1st, souls of dead children appear and will be received with corn on the cob which has been boiled and roasted. While the souls are dining, the family say the rosary and pray. After the souls leave, the family eats breakfast together.

At midday, an offering of chicken stew, squash pastry, chocolate, cookies, bread, soup, meat, vegetables and fruit is made. On November 2nd the adult souls arrive, guided by candles which have been placed around the house - one for each departed soul, plus a few extras just in case the family has forgotten someone. The offering for this day is more elaborate: tamales with chicken and pork in a spicy chile sauce, chocolates, fruit, bread and candy. Once the adult souls have eaten their fill, the living family and friends join in the banquet. In the Yucatan, the dead stay for eight days and on November 7-8 a similar fiesta with fresh food and offerings is given as a sendoff for the souls.

Day of the Dead ceremonies in the Yucatan Peninsula have two major elements: cemetery decoration and the commemorative alter in the home.

Cemetery

Preparations for November 1st are carried out on October 31st. The tombs, graves and headstones are cleaned and set with fresh flowers; at least one candle is left burning in the mausoleums and the families gather there to remember their dead.

Alters

These are set up in the corner of the living room, laid with white cloths made by the women. to the table are added: a wooden cross, a statue of the Black Christ or a coral rosary, two white candles, a vase of flowers, and something in which to burn incense. There is always food and drink and little clay toys for the child dead.

Yaxche Maya Cuisine Restaurant sometimes has special dinners for Hanal Pixan.

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