Mexico at Expo 2020 Dubai will be a festival of life, arts, culture and tradition. The country will also bring its “The day of the dead” – “Dia De Los Muertos” celebration to the Expo, the Mexican Vice-of Foreign Affairs told Gulf News in a recent interview.

In the interview, Martha Delgado Peralta confirmed Mexico’s participation at Expo 2020 Dubai, which will run from October 1, 2021 to March 31, 2022.

“Our objective is to showcase Mexico’s culture — its glorious past and present condition which is vibrant and dynamic. We will also showcase our gastronomy, history and promote tourism,” she added.

The day of the dead
Día De Los Muertos is a tradition in Mexico dating back thousands of years to ancient Aztec festivals. It’s a “colourful celebration to honour the spirits of loved ones who have passed away.” Normally it’s a two-day celebration in Mexico happening every year on November 1 and 2 but in Dubai it will take place on November 10, the designated Mexico national day celebration at Expo 2020.

Celebrate your dead people
Explaining Día De Los Muertos, Peralta says: “In our indigenous culture — our current life is just a transition. That is why it is important to celebrate death; and for us — as much as you remember and celebrate your dead people, they are still with you. They are not dead if you remember them and celebrate them on that day.”

“In Mexico, family and friends gather to remember and honour their deceased loved ones with food, drink and offerings. Día De Los Muertos is not a day of sadness but of joy and celebration, as the souls of their loved ones are celebrating with them,” she added.

Visitors at Expo 2020 will be able to enjoy the celebration of Día De Los Muertos in the Mexican pavilion at November 10.