Paseo de Las Ánimas / Promenade of the Souls

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It's not as flashy as the Catrinas parade that takes place the next night, but it's more moving. The Paseo de Las Ánimas. The idea is that the souls of the departed leave the cemetery for a few days to return to the world of the living. Think "Coco" but without the bit about security guards checking ID before they can leave. Disney made that part up.

People dress in traditional Yucatan clothes, paint their faces like calaveras, carry candles, and silently walk from the cemetery to the cathedral where they are met with a much less somber street festival with music and food and vendors.

James' comment was, "This is the most Mexican I've ever felt." 


The parade route and local law enforcement.


The scene at the Parque San Juan in front of the cathedral.











Afterwards, when we got home, we set up our own little altar. We wrote little notes to the Grandpas who have passed away and set out some of their favorite snacks.


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Anonymous said…
One party after another! :)
8:44 PM
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