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Polaroid of the week: Calacas, happy Mexican skeletons

Polaroid of the week: Calacas, happy Mexican skeletons

Last Updated on December 16, 2022

polaroid of the week mexican calacas skeletonsOne thing we love about Mexico is how death is celebrated in such a joyful manner. Instead of mournful goodbyes we are used to, in Mexico the dead are celebrated and honored with music, dancing and a fun gathering of family and friends. These colorful skeletons, called are shown in colorful clothes, dancing and often accompanied by a musical instrument. The Calacas represent the Mexican belief that no dead soul should be thought of in a sad way, but rather in a joyous celebration.

Calacas are also used in the Day of the Dead celebrations on November 2nd, a holiday dedicated to the departed, where families gather to honor their dead family members by decorating their graves and building an altar with ornate calacas and gifts such as the person’s favorite foods and drinks. These calacas can be found year round in Mexico, though, on earrings, dolls, on T-Shirts and in paintings.

 

Reas

Saturday 22nd of September 2012

Definitely one of my favorite things about Mexican Culture. It's so wonderful to portray death as a happy thing and celebrate it with colors.

Dani

Sunday 23rd of September 2012

I totally agree, Rease!

Our Dear Lady Expatriate Blog

Thursday 20th of September 2012

I wish I could say that I'm usually as jauntily dressed in life as these skeletons are in death!

Great snap!