Hanal Pixan is the Mayan celebration for the Day of the Dead, the term means “Food for the souls†and the festivity have particularities that are unique to the Yucatan Peninsula. The celebration spans from October 30th to November 2nd and it includes a shrine and offerings of food for the souls.
Hanal Pixan: Elements of the Shrine in the Mayan Community
Mesa:
The table is the base for the shrine, traditionally it will hold the food, drink, religious images or whatever the family wants to include in their shrine.
Mantel:
The tablecloth changes according to who is celebrated, if it is a kid; bright colors can be used. If the shrine is to commemorate adults, the tablecloth is traditionally white or gray as a sign of respect.
Censer/ Incense
Traditional Mayan style censers can be bought in local markets, as well as the Copal to burn on or by the altar. The idea is to offer light with the coal needed to keep it lit and the pleasant scent to attract the spirits.
Salt and water:
These are essential elements for the shrine and normally they are located on jicaras or gourds. Their function is to guide the souls and ward off bad spirits.
Shrine for adults:
For these souls the table covered with a white tablecloth with embroidery in black, a cross and images of saints, as well as portraits of the deceased is also placed. They make offerings on gourds, a glass of water and mucbipollo tamales or any dish that the deceased wanted and enjoyed in life, accompanied by breads, fruits, flowers, large candles, incense, liquor and cigars.
Shrine for the Anima Sola:
The Anima sola is a soul with no one to celebrate him or her, in order to let everyone be part of the Day of the Dead fiesta; there is a special shrine for this spirit. On one side of the family altar a small table covered with a white cloth, on which a large white candle, a glass of water and a plate of food.
Mucbipollo:
This delicacy is prepared only for the day of the death celebrations and it is a tamale filled with chicken and spices. This tamale is wrapped in banana leaves and then cooked in a hole in the earth.
Hanal Pixan: Experience the Day of the Dead in a Mayan Community
The local Tour Company Alltournative is offering residents of the Riviera Maya the wonderful experience of the Hanal Pixan celebrations in a Mayan Community.
This tour offers transportation, the event and food for a really good price, make sure to let them know you are a local to get special discounts!
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