Although it sounds a morbid title, it is actually a time of happiness and a celebration of those who have passed away - a time to remember them.
Marigold petals are scattered from the door to a celebration alter, to lead the departed to the offerings. The alter is adorned with a picture of the individual who has passed away, their favourite food and drink, personal belongings, candles, salt, sugar skulls, tequila and more marigold petals. Finally, a bowl of water is left, which when evaporated, ‘proves’ the spirit has visited.
During this celebration, traditional dishes are made such as ‘Pan de Mertos’ – Day of the Dead bread, ‘Dulce de Calabaza’ – candied squash and ‘Atole’ – corn flower drink.
The celebrations include the whole family along with music, food and gifts. The end of the celebrations is marked with fireworks and bell ringing.
Wedge wanted to embrace this traditional Mexican celebration, so we have got these extra special offers and competitions just for you!
MESTIZO RESTAURANT AND TEQUILA BAR
Take along a photograph of a dear departed and they will display it on their celebration altar.
103 Hampstead Road, NW1 3EL - 020 7387 4064
BENITO’S HAT
Go in and try their ‘Dia de los Muertos’ specials from Oct 31st to Nov 2nd. Paint your face or go in dressed like the dead and get a 50% discount on your meal. They’ll also give prizes for the most effort made.
56 Goodge Street, W1T 4NB / 19 New Row, WC2N 4LA / 12 Great Castle Street, W1W 4LA - 020 7636 6560
THE BOOK CLUB
Their celebratory ‘We Don’t Speak Mexican’ event on November 7th, asks each guest to bring along an image of a loved one who has passed on. Don’t worry if not, a drawing on the spot will work just as well. Everyone will have the chance to celebrate their chosen loved one by building an altar out of all the pictures along with special bread of the dead, Mexican hot chocolate, alcohol and flowers. Each of the items have a significant meaning and guests will be invited to have their faces decorated. Most importantly, guests will be asked to share their comical, crazy and touching stories of their loved ones as a way to make their memory live on. They’ll also be a pop quiz on all the Spanish sayings learnt on the night, so make sure you’re listening carefully to win some Mexican prizes! And as another additional treat on the night, they’ll be a short screening of fascinating animation Hasta Los Huesos / Down to the Bone; claymation at its very best.
Win a ‘Day of the Dead’ prize package including; guest list entry for four people, 2 plates of fajitas and 4 cocktails. Two prize packages to be won. To enter email info@wedgecard.co.uk or call 020 7526 3260 quoting ‘Book Club’ by 5pm November 4 2011. You must be over 18 years old to enter this competition. The food and cocktails must be consumed on Monday 7th November. The Book Club reserve the right to refuse entry if winner and / or guests are not fit to enter the venue through drunkenness, rudeness, aggressiveness or any other antisocial behaviour.
100-106 Leonard Street, EC2A 4RH - 020 7684 8618
MARIACHI EL BRONX
WIN a pair of tickets to see Mariachi El Bronx at King’s College on December 17. Two pairs of tickets to be won. Plus, WIN a copy of their new album (CD or Vinyl). Five album’s to be won. To enter, email info@wedgecard.co.uk or call 020 7526 3260 quoting ‘Mariachi’ before November 21 2011.
LUCHA BRITTANIA
WIN a pair of tickets to the show on November 18. To enter, email info@wedgecard.co.uk with the subject ‘Lucha Brittannia’ before November 17 2011.
Resistance Gallery, 265 Poyser Street, E2 9RF
Image courtesy of Mestizo Restaurant and Tequila Bar
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