Exploring the Vibrant Mexican Celebrations in September- A Month of Festivity and Tradition
What Mexican holiday is in September? One of the most significant and widely celebrated holidays in Mexico during this month is El Día de las Muertas, also known as Day of the Dead. This vibrant and colorful festival is a blend of pre-Hispanic and Catholic traditions, honoring the memory of deceased loved ones and celebrating life. It is a time when families come together to remember and pay tribute to their ancestors, with a focus on the joy and love they shared during their lives.
El Día de las Muertas is a unique Mexican holiday that dates back to pre-Hispanic times when the Aztecs celebrated the goddess Mictecacihuatl, the Lady of the Dead. The Spanish conquest brought Catholicism to Mexico, and the indigenous traditions were merged with Christian beliefs. The festival now combines elements of both cultures, with altars, decorations, and offerings that reflect both the Mexican and Catholic traditions.
The celebration of El Día de las Muertas begins on October 31st, Halloween, but the main events take place from November 1st to November 2nd. However, in Mexico, it is common to start preparing for the holiday as early as September, as it is a time of remembrance and preparation for the arrival of the spirits of the deceased.
During September, families begin to create ofrendas, which are altars dedicated to their loved ones. These altars are beautifully decorated with marigolds, candles, sugar skulls, and photographs of the deceased. Offerings such as food, drinks, and personal items that the deceased enjoyed during their lifetime are placed on the altars to entice the spirits to visit.
One of the most iconic symbols of El Día de las Muertas is the sugar skull, known as a calavera. These skulls are crafted from sugar and decorated with vibrant colors and intricate designs. They represent the skeletal faces of the deceased and are a symbol of the celebration’s playful and humorous nature.
In September, as families begin to prepare for the holiday, the streets of Mexico come alive with the vibrant colors of marigolds, and the air is filled with the scent of copal, a type of incense used in rituals. The spirit of El Día de las Muertas is palpable, as people share stories, laughter, and memories of their ancestors.
While El Día de las Muertas is a deeply personal and emotional celebration, it is also a time of joy and celebration. The holiday encourages people to remember the lives of their loved ones and to cherish the memories they have shared. It is a reminder that death is a natural part of life, and that we should live each day to the fullest.
In conclusion, El Día de las Muertas is the Mexican holiday that is celebrated in September, a time when families come together to honor their ancestors and celebrate the cycle of life. This vibrant and emotional festival is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Mexico and the importance of family and remembrance.
