🐴 Cuanajo: Day of the Dead and the Tradition of the “Caballitos Animeros”
Michoacán is the heart of the Day of the Dead (Noche de Muertos), and among its lake communities, the Purépecha town of Cuanajo stands out for one of the most authentic and emotional celebrations. Here, the offering to the departed goes beyond the altar: it is a community commitment sealed with a ritual exchange and the unique presence of the Wooden Horses.
✨ The Spirit of Cuanajo: A Ritual of Exchange
In Cuanajo, the festivity is not limited to the vigil in the cemetery; it focuses on a ritual procession of offerings that takes place during the nights of October 31st and November 1st.
The Most Unique Tradition: The Little Horses
The most central and distinctive element of Cuanajo is the Caballito Animero (Soul Horse).
- Symbol and Burden: These small wooden figures are beautifully adorned with cempasúchil flowers, fruit, pan de muerto, and candles. They symbolize the mode of transport so that the spirit of the deceased can carry the material offering and find its way back.
- The Procession: The men of the family or the godparents of the deceased are responsible for carrying these adorned horses to the houses where an altar has been set up. Women usually carry baskets with offerings.
The Family Commitment
When visitors arrive with their offerings and the symbolic horse, they do not leave empty-handed. The host family extends hospitality:
- Reciprocity: A large communal dinner is offered, mainly consisting of tamales and atole (a thick corn beverage).
- Gratitude: It is customary to thank those who bring the caballito with a bottle of tequila or mezcal, thus strengthening the social and ritual bond.
🕰️ Key Dates and Moments
The celebration extends past midnight, keeping Cuanajo awake and active:
| Day | Time | Event | Significance |
| October 31st | Night | Waiting for the “Angelitos” | Homage to the souls of children who have passed away. |
| November 1st | Afternoon/Night | Tolling of Bells | Continuous ringing announces the arrival of adult souls. |
| November 1st | Night/Early Morning | Offering Procession | Ritual exchange of offerings and caballitos between homes. |
| November 2nd | Morning | Cemetery Vigil | Families gather at the cemetery, decorating the graves with flowers and candles, recalling anecdotes of the departed. |
📍 How to Visit Cuanajo Respectfully?
If you plan to experience the Day of the Dead in Cuanajo:
- Observe with Discretion: The celebration is a family and community ritual. Observe from a respectful distance.
- Ask for Permission: If you wish to take photographs of an altar or a grave, it is essential to ask the present family members for permission.
- Prepare for the Night: Wear warm clothing and comfortable shoes, as the main activity takes place in the streets and cemeteries during the early hours of the morning.
Visiting Cuanajo means delving into the authenticity of the Purépecha culture, where the memory of the deceased is kept alive through art, gastronomy, and an unwavering commitment from the community
