Living in San Diego I have seen Americans transform Dia De Los Muertos, the day of the dead, into an over the top party scene complete with face painting. Not knowing any better, when I heard the news we were going to Mexico for the day on Nov. 2nd I immediately started looking for the nearest place that would do my face painting. After about ten minutes into my search I was informed from a Tijuana native that no one in Mexico would paint their face for Dia De Los Muertos. As I want to assimilate to every culture I took his advice and kept my attire and face painting to a casual level.
We drove along the highway down to Puerto Nuevo, which is about an hour south of the border from San Diego. Here I noticed the Marigolds for sale by the bunches along the road. It was so amazing to see how the culture celebrates this day. This day is spent to celebrate the life that the deceased live. It is celebrated for 2 days-November 1 and 2 these two days are spent visiting graves or building alters in ones home. At grave sites and alters you will find the marigold flowers because it is said to attract the spirit of the deceased both with it’s bright color and powerful scent. You will also find personalized gifts and offerings for the deceased like their favorite dish or a favorite pastime of theirs.
Seeing how the Mexican culture celebrates Dia De Los Muertos as it is a completely different celebration than the American version and is truly an honor for loved ones.
Miguel muñoz says
No other better place to celebrate the day of the dead than in tijuana, right?, hopefully you can join us in other culturally rich events like christmas or a the last bullfight of the season!!!!