Threads of Identity – A Celebration of Janal Pixan at MEL
Saturday, October 24 | 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Mérida English Library
Calle 53 #524 x 66 y 68, Centro, Mérida
A Celebration of Heritage, Memory, and Tradition
Following the wonderful response to our first Threads of Identity event in August, we are bringing it back to the Mérida English Library — this time with a special edition dedicated to Janal Pixan, the Maya tradition of honoring and remembering loved ones who have passed away.
By popular request from our community, we invite you to join us for a meaningful morning celebrating the richness of Maya culture, ancestral traditions, craftsmanship, storytelling, and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.
Threads of Identity
At the heart of this event are the remarkable women artisans of the Consejo Estatal de Bordadoras de Yucatán (State Council of Yucatán Embroiderers). These master artisans preserve ancestral hand-embroidery techniques that have been passed down through generations. Their work is more than beautiful craftsmanship: the garments they create carry stories, traditions, symbols, and expressions of cultural identity.
During the event, a selection of their garments and creations will be available for public viewing and purchase. We will also celebrate their artistry with a special fashion show, showcasing the beauty and craftsmanship of these unique pieces.
Honoring Janal Pixan
In keeping with the spirit of Janal Pixan, we will create a traditional altar of offerings, honoring the connection between the living and those who have passed before us.
A Maya priest will lead a traditional Maya ceremony, offering an opportunity for our community to experience and learn about this meaningful cultural tradition in a respectful setting.
Maya Stories in English
Our MEL Storytime team will also share a Maya legend in English, bringing the tradition of oral storytelling to our bilingual community and creating a space where language, culture, and imagination come together.
Throughout the morning, guests will also be able to enjoy food and beverages available for purchase.
A Community Celebration
Threads of Identity – A Celebration of Janal Pixan at MEL is an invitation to come together, learn, listen, celebrate, and reflect on the traditions that connect us to our past and shape our identity today.
We are honored to bring this special event back to the library at the request of our community and to continue creating spaces where culture, stories, craftsmanship, and people can meet.
Come celebrate with us as we honor the hands that preserve tradition, the stories that keep memory alive, and the roots that connect us all.
We look forward to welcoming you to MEL.
