In temperate climates, fall brings to mind cool weather, colorful leaves, and pumpkin patches. While fall weather may look differently in most Hispanic countries, they still have plenty to celebrate during the autumn months. These customs range from religious observances to harvest festivals and celebrating independence days. Here are a few fall traditions to explore from Spanish-speaking cultures.
Día de los Muertos or Day of the Dead is one of Mexico’s and Central America’s most famous traditions! Families create ornate altars called ofrendas to honor their deceased loved ones and welcome their souls back on November 1st and 2nd. The ofrendas are decorated with candles, marigold flowers, photos, papel picado, and can even include the deceased’s favorite food and drink. Family and friends enjoy a typical sweet bread called pan de muerto (dead bread) and even have picnics in cemeteries to share a meal with those who are no longer with us. For those who enjoy candy, calaveritas or sugar skulls are a special treat!
Samaín is a tradition that’s been celebrated for thousands of years. In fact, Halloween can trace its origins back to this festival that comes from the ancient Celts. Samaín is celebrated on the night of October 31st in the region of Galicia, Spain—an area that was inhabited by Celtic tribes. In Gaelic, the word Samhain means “end of summer,” and the Celts held the belief that on this particular night, it was easier to cross between the worlds of the living and the dead. Today, revelers carve calabazas (pumpkins), gather around bonfires, and drink a hot punch called queimada.
Also taking place in Spain during the months of September and October, are world-renowned wine festivals. La Festa de la Verema happens during the first weekend of October in the town of Sitges on the Catalonian coast. This celebration is popular with natives and tourists alike where they take part in vine-cutting ceremonies, grape pressing, and barrel-carrying competitions. La Rioja is perhaps the most recognized wine region in Spain and the site of the Feria de San Mateo. Named for Saint Matthew, this week-long tradition begins around the third week of September and includes music, food, fireworks, and, of course, wine-tastings.
During the month of September, Mexico and several other countries in Latin America commemorate their respective Días de la Independencia. Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua all share September 15th as their Independence Day. Just like in the U.S., celebrating independence in these Central American countries involves parades, fireworks, music, and time-honored traditions—such as the Antorcha de la Independencia. On the night of September 15th Mexico begins its own celebration with the reenactment of “El Grito.” Mexicans continue their revelry throughout September 16th, their official Independence Day, by throwing street parties, performing traditional dances, and enjoying awe-inspiring firework displays.
From carving calabazas in Galicia, Spain to enjoying sugar calaveras in Mexico, these traditions remind us that while the fall season may look different across the globe, the spirit of coming together and honoring heritage is universal.
By Kelli Drummer-Avendano
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