Dia De Los Muertos

The Day of the Dead is a two day celebration occurring the first two days of November. It is a celebration of both life and death when families commemorate their deceased loved ones. Families construct altars to the departed and make appropriate offerings to encourage their spirits to return home and hear their prayers.  Sweets and toys are offered to deceased children and alcohol, cigarettes and other personal offerings to departed adults.

Altar for Anthony Bourdain

Cempaspuchitl or Marigold flowers are most commonly used to adorn the alters. They bloom at the end of the rainy season just prior to the Day of the Dead and flowers symbolize the impermanence of life. Candles and sugar skulls, with the names of the deceased written on the forehead, decorate most alters. 

Entertainers dressed as Calacas (Skeletons)

Entertainers dressed as Calacas (Skeletons)

Each year, Flora Farms, tucked in a fertile valley just East of San Jose Del Cabo hosts a remarkable Day of the Dead Alter Competition that benefits many local charities.  It's a colorful and upscale celebration that we attended with friends and look forward to every year. 

Gathering with friends to celebrate Dia de los Muertos

Friends visiting from California

Marty and Nancy Pinter

The proceeds from this altar fund a dance program for local kids at risk

An elegant altar honoring Coco Chanel

The $25 ticket price goes to the charities and includes a glass of wine and an elaborate and plentiful appetizer buffet.

Grilled meat and vegetable skewers

Appetizers galore

Colorful entertainment and traditional music

Stilt-walkers

Glowing large than life puppets.

Five judges choose the winning alters based on the most traditional, the most original and the best mix of both.