The yellow marigold flower, known in Mexico as flor de cempazuchitl, is one of the most beautiful and important symbols surrounding the world-famous Mexican celebration of Day of the Dead. The flower’s orange hue is reminiscent of the setting sun, standing beyond the horizon like an ominous beacon for faraway souls.
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Pátzcuaro and the flower of the dead
In the colorful town of Pátzcuaro, Mexico, the cempazuchitl plays a profound role in the festivities. The whole point of Day of the Dead is to invite our deceased loved ones to come join the world of the living for a little while; to gather around the family home and share with those they left behind in an evening of dancing and laughter. It’s a true party, and the cempazuchitl is the light that leads you there.
Every year, dozens of fishermen take to Lake Pátzcuaro in order to release cempazuchitl flowers all over its waters, trying to show the dead the way towards the town’s homes and cemeteries—where their entire families await.
At the end of the road, the dead will find a veritable feast. In Pátzcuaro, bakers work around the clock to produce bread of the dead, or pan de muerto, of all shapes and sizes to honor a tradition that goes back more years than anyone can hope to remember. Families will give this bread as an offering in their ofrenda, an altar especially dedicated to their loved ones, so they can feel right at home.
With a touch of color and tequila
Other food items and drinks that are essential to receive the dead are tangerines, sweet bread, and, of course, tequila. As you turn away from the altar and step outside, you’d find a town whose every corner is perfectly decorated with the holiday’s theme.
Papel picado, a type of thin paper with traditional images and lively colors, hangs proudly over the ancient cobblestone streets while candles light a path leading to the cemetery. Traditional music plays loudly and the cheering of the masses happily dancing around paint a living picture that leaves no doubt about it: tonight is not for mourning or sadness. Tonight is a night of joy and celebration.
Once everything is in place, the whole town is ready to welcome its guests of honor for a day, where everyone gets together to enjoy life once more, no exceptions. All in all, it’s safe to say this is as beautiful and emotional as a festivity can get.
You can celebrate Day of The Dead and give a toast to those loved ones who have passed away, with a José Cuervo Tradicional Day of the Dead limited edition bottle, in its reposado or tradicional version.
Read more:
Here’s Why Tequila Is A Central Part Of Day Of The Dead
