Mexicans in Oaxacan towns as San Agustín and San José Etla celebrate their traditional “muerteadas,” a festivity that stretches for several nights and locals regard as part of their identity
SAN AGUSTÍN ETLA, México — Daniel Dávila knew he would become a devil at age 12. He prepares his costume weeks ahead of Day of the Dead celebrations in San Agustín Etla, in southwest Mexico, where families take to the streets on Nov. 1 to remember how death can be as joyful as life. In the state of Oaxaca, where the 33-year-old lives, “muerteadas” are part of a festival that stretches for several nights and locals regard as part of their identity.
” The most ancient muerteadas were processions led by entire families wearing jaguar masks, said Víctor Cata, the local secretary of culture. In the pre-Hispanic times, people feared that the sun would not rise and consequently life would end. According to this belief, women would turn into monsters and devour humans, so people hid under their masks and held vigils. “San Agustín Etla has Zapotec origins,” Cata said.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Why San Francisco and San Jose are falling behind in housing constructionTwo new analyses reveal why housing is so difficult to build in San Francisco and San Jose and what must change to jump-start construction.
Read more »
Amid Acapulco devastation, Mexicans mark Day of the DeadIn the storm-ravaged Mexican coastal city of Acapulco, a candle flickers in the corner of stylist Nelly Valadez's home, where she has set up an altar for Day of the Dead to honor her husband and mother who died of cancer.
Read more »
With flowers, altars and candles, Mexicans are honoring deceased relatives on the Day of the DeadMexicans in the state of Oaxaca are celebrating the Day of the Dead
Read more »
With flowers, altars and candles, Mexicans are honoring deceased relatives on the Day of the DeadMexicans in the state of Oaxaca are celebrating the Day of the Dead.
Read more »
With flowers, altars and candles, Mexicans are honoring deceased relatives on the Day of the DeadMexicans in the state of Oaxaca are celebrating the Day of the Dead.
Read more »
With flowers, altars and candles, Mexicans are honoring deceased relatives on the Day of the DeadMexicans in the state of Oaxaca are celebrating the Day of the Dead.
Read more »