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All about Hanal Pixán, the food of the souls

In the heart of the Yucatán Peninsula, where the essence of the Mayan culture intertwines with the beauty of the jungle, a unique festivity is celebrated: Hanal Pixan, also known as the Day of the Dead in the Mayan World.

Día de muertos tradición mexicana
Celebrating life and death during Hanal Pixán

This celebration is an ode to life, memory and tradition that has fascinated everyone who has had the privilege of getting to know this holiday. And no wonder, since it involves from customs and cultural aspects, to seasonal flavors and aromas.

Which is why, at Pischán Restaurant, we want to invite you to discover everything about Hanal Pixán, from its deep meaning to the culinary details that make it so special. 

Hanal Pixan, Mayan Day of the Dead

1. What is Hanal Pixán, and why is it celebrated?

Hanal Pixán is an ancient tradition of the Mayans, which translated into English means “Meal of the Souls”. Believe it or not, this is actually a tribute to death, because unlike other cultures, for the Mayans death was not a cause for fear, but a natural part of life.

Altar de dia de muertos
Day of the Dead Altars to welcome loved ones

That is why during these dates it is believed that the souls of loved ones return to the world of the living to once again enjoy the food, the offerings on the altars and, of course, the company of their families.

Although, thanks to Spanish colonization, it has become a Mexican tradition that combines elements of Mayan culture and Catholic influence, it still maintains its essence. Therefore, it will always be a bridge of reunion between the world of the living and the dead.

2. When is Hanal Pixán celebrated?

This festivity takes place at the end of October and beginning of November. October 31st is the first day that the animas are given “permission” to visit their relatives, and it lasts until November 2nd.

catrinas tradiciones del día de muertos
Catrinas, symbols of Mexican celebration

Something very peculiar is that although the entire celebration lasts three days, each of these dates is dedicated to a different type of soul. The first night, known as Hanal Palal, is dedicated to children. While November 1st or Hanal Nucuch Uinicoob is for the adults and November 2nd or Hanal Pixanoob, is reserved for the faithful departed.

During this time, families dedicate themselves to the preparation of altars and the making of traditional dishes that will be offered to their loved ones who have passed away.

3. Characteristics of Hanal Pixán in Yucatán

Although Hanal Pixán has many similarities with the Day of the Dead that many already known worldwide, the Maya region has its own peculiarities and distinctive characteristics. Some of them are:

flores de cempasuchil en cdmx
Marigold flowers decorating Mexico's streets
  • The Altars: The tradition involves several customs, but the main one is to place an altar, either inside the house, under trees or near the grave of the deceased. On the altar, offerings such as favorite foods, candles, photographs and flowers should be placed. 
  • Gastronomic delights: Another of the most notable differences of Hanal Pixán are the typical foods that are cooked. The most awaited of all is the “Mucbipollo”, a giant tamale that is cooked underground in large quantities to share with the family. In addition, dishes and drinks are prepared such as pib, atole, pumpkin candy, and balché, just to mention a few.
  • Cempasúchil flowers: Graves in cemeteries are decorated with flowers, especially the “cempasúchil”, an orange flower that is believed to mark the way and guide the souls of the deceased home.
  • The use of purifying elements: Incense is often burned to purify the environment and ward off evil spirits. In addition, water and salt are used on the altar, symbolizing purification and preservation of life.
  • Eating of food: While it is customary to place food, drinks and offerings on the altars for our deceased loved ones, normally when the souls have already taken “the grace” of the food, the remaining family members can eat of it. But they must wait until the third day.
  • Days for all: As mentioned before, one of the main characteristics of this festivity is that a specific day is dedicated to each type of soul, so that all can be celebrated and remembered as they should be.

4. The essential things for the Altar of the Dead

For Yucatecan families, the creation of the altar is a fundamental part of Hanal Pixán. So here are some key elements that cannot be missing in your altar of the dead during this celebration.

Comida de Dia de Muertos
Gastronomic delicacies placed in the offerings
  • Tablecloth: To receive the deceased many families use white tablecloths, or with colorful embroidery for the children, symbolizing purity and peace. Although many others believe that it is simply a decorative element.
  • The photograph of the deceased: To invite the souls to enjoy the offerings, it is necessary to place an image of the loved one on the altar. Representing that even though the person is no longer with us, he or she is remembered.
  • The candles: Being symbols of light, they are literally used to light the way home for the souls of the deceased. Often 4 candles are even placed in the shape of a cross (simulating the cardinal points) to guide them from wherever they are.
  • Green wooden cross: If you are planning on putting together a traditional Yucatecan altar, then one of the crucial elements is the green wooden cross. It represents the sacred ceiba tree, the center of the universe in the Mayan cosmovision.
  • Incense or copal: Due to their strong aroma, both essences are used to guide the souls back home and help them on their long journey from the afterlife. In addition, they also serve to purify the environment and ward off evil spirits.
  • Flowers: Colorful flowers, particularly cempasúchil, are used to decorate the altar and attract the souls. Generally, a path of flowers is formed from the door of the house to the altar so that the deceased follow that route.
  • Food and beverages: Another indispensable item in an altar are the favorite dishes and beverages of the deceased, for example, children can be given chocolates, pan de muerto and candies, while adults, in addition to food, can be given alcoholic beverages or cigars.
  • Belongings of the deceased: Finally, the altar can also include the deceased’s favorite objects. For example, jewelry, clothes or, in the case of children, toys.

5. Regions in Yucatán to celebrate Hanal Pixán

If you have the opportunity to visit Yucatán during this wonderful time of year, we recommend exploring some of the charming regions this area has to offer. For example, Mérida and Cobá. 

The first one is the state capital and is famous for its architectural beauty and rich culture. But also, during Hanal Pixán, it is filled with altars, offerings and traditional delicacies. 

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On the other hand, if you are looking for a more authentic and traditional experience, then we suggest you visit the mystical town of Cobá, located 2 hours and 40 minutes from Mérida. In this ancient Maya village you can connect with the spirituality of the holiday and appreciate the contrast between the ancient culture and the tradition of Hanal Pixán.

To taste traditional seasonal delicacies such as Maya chocolate, pan de muerto and a wide variety of typical dishes of the region, do not hesitate to visit Pischán Restaurant, where ancestral flavors merge with contemporary techniques.

To accompany your best events with the essence and style of Cobá you can make reservations through the direct line 998 342 0198, or if you prefer, through the website.

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Av. Principal No. 1, 77793 Cobá, Q.R.

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