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Join Claudio for this special occasion we will be celebrating one of the most important holidays in Mexico, the day of the dead or “Dia de los Muertos”.The Day of the Dead is one of the traditions that has remained alive throughout the centuries; the main holidays are November 1 & 2, which UNESCO designated and cataloged as an Intangible Heritage of Humanity in 2003.
This special celebration dates back to prehispanic times before the arrival of Europeans to America, and has been alive and widely celebrated over the years.
About the Day of the Dead
The Day of the Dead tradition dates back to pre-Hispanic times, when a tribute was paid to death; the tribute took place from the last week of October to the first days of November.
Prehispanic Mexicans conceived Death as the beginning of the journey to Mictlán (the Place of the Dead), during which the soul of the deceased had to overcome various obstacles before reaching Mictlantecuhtli (the Lord of the Dead) and Mictecacíhuatl (the Lady of the Dead). Upon reaching the gods of Mictlán, an offering had to be made to them in order to obtain eternal rest.
What to Expect
Claudio will explain why it is important to celebrate and take the time to honour and remember the members of your family, ancestors and loved ones who have passed away. He will also explain the mysticism and spirituality around the Day of the Dead celebration.
We’ll also learn how to set up your ofrenda, or altar, and which elements are important for it (as well their meaning).
It's very common for an ofrenda of the dead to be placed inside Mexican homes, decorated with papel picado, food, traditional sweets, and photos of loved ones. Candles and marigold flowers are also placed as a sign of welcome for our loved ones.
Feel free to bring photos of your beloved ones that have passed away, fruits and flowers for the altar and anything that your beloved ones valued / loved when they were here with us. We will place those on the altar.
The Evening’s Schedule
Cleansing copal and herbal welcoming.
An opening ceremony to acknowledge the Tlalmanalli (offering and altar) with the deep sound of the conch shell in the four directions and drums sounds.
History of the day of the dead celebration.
Explanation of the altar, and the main elements for an ofrenda.
Storytelling: learn of Mexican legends like Catrinas and Xoloitzcuintle (the Mexican dog that helps the dead to find their way to Mictlan, the Aztec underword).
Remembering and sharing histories about the loved ones that passed away (optional but encouraged)
Traditional Mexican chants for remembering the loved ones
Atole de Chocolate, a traditional prehispanic drink - amazing in flavour, consumed cold or hot
Music to invoke emotion and imagery of contemplative natural and mystical environments
Finish with a shamanic atmosphere of relaxation and traditional chants.
Details
When: Saturday 1 November, 7pm -9pm
Where: AWHI Yoga & Wellbeing - Level 2, 15 Johnston Street, Wellington CBD.
Investment: $55 (first 5 enrolments - $45!); Children under 16 years old - $35
Haere Mai!
Everyone is welcome including kids (see special pricing). No previous experience or knowledge is required. As this is an evening of learning and exploration, come wearing comfortable clothing! Bring an open heart and mind willing to learn and receive.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
AWHI Yoga & Wellbeing, 34 Customhouse Quay, Wellington Central, Wellington 6011, New Zealand, Wellington
Tickets
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