Some people say that this tradition is mixed with the prehispanic custom of burying the dead with objects, food and gifts for their journey to the afterlife. The tradition stems from the belief that at death the souls remain in a certain place while they’re waiting to go to heaven. El Día de los Muertos was celebrated by the Aztecs (in Mexico) and the Mayans (in Guatemala) during the prehispanic time. When the Spanish arrived to the American Continent this local practice was adapted to the Christian calendar, and now is celebrated on the 1st and 2nd of November. The first day people celebrate the Day of All Saints, dedicated to children. The second is dedicated to the rest of the dead, which are the only days on which the souls are allowed to return to visit their loved ones. So it is actually a welcome party for those who are surprised.
Despite the similitudes of El Día de los Muertos between Guatemala and Mexico, Guatemala celebrates this holiday in a different way. Guatemalans go to cemeteries and put some flowers on the graves of their loved ones and friends who have passed away. This is done to honor and remember their memories.
Guatemala’s best Día de los Muertos celebrations are held in the town of Santiago Sacatepéquez, a small town outside of the famous city of Antigua Guatemala. People there made what is called “barriletes gigantes” — extravagant and enormous kites central to the festivities. These hand-constructed kites guide the departed souls back to life on November 1st. As a link between life and death, they’re covered with special messages and designs to the deceased, written by the living. Every year thousands of tourists visit this place in order to appreciate the wonderful tradition for themselves.
There is another famous celebration in the country, in the small town of Todos Santos Cuchumatán. The main event there is the horse race competition that happens on November 1st. This horse race has been celebrated for many years, and attracts a lot of tourists as well.
Also unique to these dates in Guatemala is the “fiambre.” Fiambre is a traditional dish, very similar to a salad, made up of several ingredients. This dish usually include numerous sausages, hams, pickled baby-corn, onion, beets, pacaya flower, cheeses, olives, chicken, and sometimes even Brussels sprouts or shrimp. It is customary to eat the fiambre with the family.
El Día de los Muertos is one of the most famous traditions Guatemala has. People from all over the country celebrate it. They also remember those families and friends who have passed away, but still live in their memories. I’ve had the opportunity to experience this holiday and enjoy it. In fact, it has become one of the most memorable celebrations I’ll never forget.