Some examples of Catrina’s
Although November 1st and 2nd are not considered National Holidays, they are a very important celebration throughout Mexico. Here in Puerto Peñasco, it is a large celebration. It begins on October 31, followed by Dia de los Inocentes (Day of the Children) on November 1st and the Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead) on November 2, 2021. It is always held on the same dates every year.
Unlike many countries, the Day of the Dead in Mexico is a festive celebration that celebrates the life of those who have died. It begins with cleaning and decorating the graves with altars of yellow marigolds and gladiolas, candles, sugar skulls, food and drink that were the favorite of the person as well as some of their favorite things. The families make a party of doing this at the cemetery and in many cases spend the night while having tequila, Atole and music while telling stories about the deceased. You will find Pan de Muertos as well as other food being served here as well as in the homes of the families.
In many cities throughout Mexico you will find parades with ladies having their faces painted and wearing fancy dresses to mimic the Catrina’s. A Catrina is a tall clay skelton shaped woman dressed in a long gown with large fancy hats that are decorated with flowers and they have long skelton looking fingers. These figurines are very collectable and can be found at most Mexican curio shops. If you are looking to collect these Catrina’s check into the shops in the Old Port, Mercedes Rusticos and Rodeo Drive or take a class to paint your own Catrina at Ideas Unique Gifts, located below Latitude 31. This store also has already painted ones that are indeed unique or if you are looking for something in particular, she will find it for you. When you buy them already finished you will find them made of clay that is glazed or paper mache.
In Puerto Peñasco, the altars are usually set up in the entrance to the curio shops on Rodeo Drive as well as next to the library on Benito Juarez across from the Municipal building. The event at Rodeo Drive aka the Cholla Bay Curios, they normally block of the street so that you can stroll from shop to shop as the music plays long into the night even after the shops have closed. At the Playa Bonita Hotel, the owners do a beautiful altar in honor of their father and founder of the hotel. It is nice to wander through the cemeteries to see the different alters being built. So come and enjoy Dia de Muertos and all of the tradition that goes with it.
Come out and join the fun while enjoying the beautiful weather in Puerto Peñasco and the stunning Sea of Cortez views. Remember Rocky Point is only a 4 hour drive from Phoenix or Tucson.
Don’t forget to share us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. Feel free to contact me via email or phone at 623-298-4284.
If you any questions Contact Us at Blog@Puerto-Penasco.com or nocomosi@msn.com.