Xcaret Festival of Life and Death: a Dazzling Celebration

The 18th annual Xcaret Festival of Life and Death, a celebration of Day of the Dead traditions, concluded on November 2. The festival, held from October 30 to November 2, solidified its status as one of the premier Day of the Dead experiences in Mexico.

National and international attendees enjoyed a diverse range of activities, featuring around a thousand artists in theatre, dance, and concerts. Quintana Roo, the guest state celebrating its 50th anniversary, showcased its artisans, traditional cooks, and various artists, presenting their cultural heritage and traditions.

Quintana Roo displayed its stunning natural scenery, traditions, and cuisine, inherited from the ancestral Mayan culture. The region's unique way of honoring the dead, with the "Janal Pixán" or food of the souls, was a highlight of the festival, imbued with deep spirituality.

The festival was endorsed by the Supreme Mayan Council, represented by several members, confirming Xcaret's strong relationship with the Mayan communities, 36 of which participated in the festival. This year's festival also paid tribute to the eternal souls of the mascarons of archaeological sites like Kohunlich, revealing secrets of the ancient cultures that once inhabited the Quintana Roo region.

The festival comprised 330 events that combined music, dance, theatre, and gastronomy, offering attendees a deep dive into Mexican culture and customs. Workshops, exhibitions, and activities provided insight into the Day of the Dead celebration, recognized as Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

Music was a central part of the festival. Singer-songwriter Silvana Estrada performed her concert "Ofrenda" on October 30 and 31, blending traditional rhythms with contemporary sounds. On November 2, Latin pop band Reik performed their "Panorama Tour" for the first time in the Great Tlachco, entertaining the audience with their greatest hits and new songs.

Highlighted performances included "The Path of the Hummingbird", a show that combined pre-Hispanic dance, opera, and circus elements to tell the legend of the hummingbird and the marigold flower. The play "Do Fish Sleep?" offered a touching exploration of grief from a family perspective.

The festival also featured a gastronomic exhibition with over 50 typical dishes from the region available at 18 food stands. Additionally, 22 spaces were dedicated to the sale of crafts and local products, showcasing the talent of artisans from Quintana Roo and other regions of Mexico.