Janal Pixan at MEL

The air in October in the Península of Yucatán feels different, and Yucatecans know it. We know it when the weather changes (just a little, it’s still hot), the birds sing a different tune early in the morning, the sunset feels special as well, and markets dress up in colors with the presence of seasonal flowers and candies. Local ingredients are available at stores to cook regional food, and the scent is present whenever you walk around. Yes, it’s JANAL PIXAN season.

JANAL PIXAN (the food of the souls) is the traditional celebration of the life of our loved ones who are no longer with us. Families in the state clean their homes in advance, they wash their clothes, put their animals in the shelter, and set up an altar. With photographs of the deceased, flowers, candles, candies, and food. People believe the souls have permission to visit us during this time and enjoy the ofrendas (offerings) we place on the altar. We may not see them, but we feel their presence in the air, in the rain, and even in the mood. JANAL PIXAN was originally celebrated by our Maya ancestors, who have evolved with the colonization costumes and modern adaptations. Though, there are specific details that must be present on the altar, such as a green wooden cross, water, salt, and sweet bread, among other elements. All over México, the celebration of Día de Muertos is different due to the original cultures.

We want to share with all our community how we celebrate JANAL PIXAN at MEL. Join us on Wednesday, November 1st, starting at 10 am with different activities during the day.

Take a look at our altar and ofrendas that the MEL staff and volunteers will set up.

The Maya Priest Council will visit us to perform a Maya Ceremony to consecrate the JANAL PIXAN celebration at 10 am.

The folkloric dance group Flor de Mayo will bring Jarana, traditional Yucatecan dances, to the patio of MEL by 11 am.

A talk about the “Tradition of Making Pib” will be held in the classroom. at 12 pm.

During the day, we will have PIB for sale. This traditional dish is a big tamal made of corn dough mixed with beans, filled with tomato and spices sauce and chicken meat. This delicious dish is baked underground, as a symbol of the buried ceremony. We all look forward to this date to eat Pib!