Sante Fe
Population 800

Sante Fe is a simple village with a modest plaza, dirt streets, a church in need of repair, and an unkempt graveyard. It won’t be listed in any guidebook. Yet, to go there is to experience the true Mexican spirit – gracious, open people.

Day of the Dead is a religious holiday that pays homage to those who have recently died. It’s a special day for relatives honoring deceased loved ones who have died in the last year. During Day of the Dead, the recently departed will receive their first offering- the most important.

Home altars are constructed in a special area. An arch of yellow marigolds is made. Fruit, such as bananas, oranges, and limes are hung from the arch. Religious images, photographs of the deceased and personal objects are laid on the altar to evoke that person’s presence. Ceremonial black pottery holds bouquets of flowers. Incense and candles surround the altar. Bread, fruits, vegetables, and sugar candies become food offerings. There are glasses of water and Coca Cola for the souls that arrive thirsty. Marigold petals are strewn from the door of the house to the altar guiding the dearly departed to the offerings.