Getting the attention of a chilango is no easy task. In Mexico City, one's senses are quickly filled to overflowing (it's one of the highs we urbanites are addicted to). So you need something to make yourself stand out. Parking lot attendants wave red flannel flags to entice you in, a giant fuzzy dragon hands out flyers for a discount pharmacy, twin girls in hot pants and sequined cowboy boots shimmy in front of a car repair shop. I once heard a mariachi group celebrating the opening of a street stall selling piles of raw chicken parts.
By my prize goes to this group of young performers promoting vegetable oil on a street corner near the metro stop Hospital General. They're working 4 hours a day, three days a week--at least for now. Luckily there were no free samples. I stayed for a few minutes and watched. Everyone else just walked on by.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Friday, October 16, 2009
DAY OF THE DEAD IN MEXICO CITY
Day of the Dead in Mexico (November 1 and 2) is one of the most moving, culturally significant, and visually impressive events of the year. As opposed to the United States, where death is usually a hidden, private affair, in Mexico the entire country engages in a communal exercise of observing and remembering those who have died. It is a defining element of the culture, an expression of a world view that is distinctly Mexican. It is also one of the best times to visit, observe, and learn.
Places such as Oaxaca and Patzcuaro are famed for their Day of the Dead celebrations, but in Mexico City you will perhaps find even more going on. For those interested, here is the link to the article I wrote last year for The News. Most of the information therein will apply this year, too.
Places such as Oaxaca and Patzcuaro are famed for their Day of the Dead celebrations, but in Mexico City you will perhaps find even more going on. For those interested, here is the link to the article I wrote last year for The News. Most of the information therein will apply this year, too.
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