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An ofrenda (altar) in Puebla
for the Day of the Dead
Photo by Ignacio Urquiza
Many Mexicans, especially the indigenous population, accept death as part of a life cycle without beginning or end. This is best witnessed during the Day of the Dead and All Saints commemorations, a day even more important than Christmas as it is a reunion with both living and departed family members. This is when families celebrate the spiritual return of loved ones who went ahead on the road to the after life.
Our autumn trip will be centered around these special days as we participate in the making and decorating of an ofrenda (altar), in Tlaxcala and then visiting various homes in the village of Huaquechula in Puebla, sharing celebratory foods with the families.
And, of course, there will be trips to local markets and classes by Chef Ricardo Muņoz and Tlaxcalan food anthropologist and cooking teacher, Yolanda Ramos who will demonstrate how to make many of the celebratory foods; mole, tamales, and the traditional Day of the Dead bread.
Other activities during this week-long trip will include the exploration of the archeological site of Cacaxtla with its ancient, but still brilliant, murals. This region of Tlaxcala is known for growing amaranth, and making alegria, a delicious sweet made from popped amaranth seeds. Here we will visit a village home to see how alegria is made and we will eat some of the best tacos ever, of grilled beef, nopales (cactus paddles) and blue corn tortillas.
Two highlights while we are in Puebla will be visiting the spectacular tile-clad kitchen of the Convent of Santa Rosa where legend has it, mole poblano was first served, and shopping at a leading Talavera dish and tile store. These are finely crafted pieces of glazed pottery.
This trip starts in Mexico City and ends in Puebla.
The cost is $2,750, exclusive of transportation to Mexico City and from Puebla.
Minimum of 10 participants, maximum of 16.
Please email to cul_adv_inc@attglobal.net for more information.
all material copyright 2001-2010 by Marilyn Tausend.
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