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Day of the Dead Celebrations in Vallarta
 PVNN
October 30, 2010
| | The Day of the Dead is one of Mexico's most exciting events, and offers an excellent way to experience its culture, history and people. | |
In Mexico, Día de Los Muertos festivities begin on the night of October 31 and continue through All Saints Day and All Souls Day, celebrated November 1st and 2nd respectively. These are the days when art, religion, life, death, sadness and humor all come together in bright colors, tears and music.
Despite the dreary name, El Dia De Los Muertos (or Day of the Dead) is marked by vibrant bouquets of marigolds, heaping plates of favorite foods and lively parties that all celebrate lost loved ones in the ancient Mexican tradition.
Here is Vallarta, there will be traditional altars set up along Agustin Rodriguez (the Municipal Mercado street,) from October 31st to November 2nd. A Church fair will be installed selling antojitos. Large 2 meter Catrinas will be available for tourists to take photos with. There will also be altars and Day of the Dead art exhibited on the Malecón and at the Presidencia.
On November 2, from 7 to 11 pm, there will be a Day of the Dead Celebration & Fiesta in downtown Puerto Vallarta with a Mariachi show, a performance by the Xiutla Folkloric Ballet and fireworks.
Municipal Mercado Fiestahotel Altar Displays
Eight Vallarta Hotels and the Presidencia will also have altar displays and there will be a contest with prizes (including stays in some of the hotels) for people who complete the altar circuit.
• Hotel Posada del Río will have an altar honoring actress Dolores del Río
• Hotel Rosita for Don Miguel Hidalgo
• Hotel Rio for Mario Moreno Cantinflas
• Hotel Eloísa for Frida Kahlo
• The Cathedral for Francisco Villa
• Los Arcos for Emiliano Zapata
• Hotel del Mar for Guadalupe Sánchez
• Hotel Villa Mercedes for Porfirio Díaz
Cemetery Vigil
On the same night, relatives and friends of those who have died will spend the night in local cemeteries. The 5th of December cemetery is the main one visited locally. It is possible for tourists to visit the cemetery at this time, but extreme reverence is cautioned and expected. This is not a tourist activity but rather a personal and emotional family experience. There will also be a strong police presence regulating alcohol consumption.
The traditions vary dramatically throughout Mexico, but they are all characterized by a blend of traditional, pre-Hispanic Mexican culture and modern twists.
Sources:
PVScene.com
The Mexican Day of the Dead
Heather McPherson, Orlando Sentinel
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