What is the Feast of Cats? - briefly
The Feast of Cats, also known as the Day of the Black Cat or the Night of the Witches, is an annual celebration that honors and protects cats, particularly black ones. This event is often marked by various rituals and festivities aimed at ensuring the well-being and happiness of these feline creatures.
What is the Feast of Cats? - in detail
The Feast of Cats, also known as the Day of the Dead in Mexico (Día de los Muertos), is an intricate and vibrant holiday that celebrates and honors deceased loved ones. This multifaceted tradition is deeply rooted in indigenous beliefs and Catholic influences, creating a unique blend of spirituality and cultural heritage.
The celebration takes place annually on November 1st and 2nd, coinciding with the Catholic holidays of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day. During this period, families gather to create elaborate altars (ofrendas) in their homes, adorned with photographs of the deceased, marigold flowers, favorite foods, and other personal mementos. These altars serve as a symbolic bridge between the world of the living and the dead, inviting spirits to visit and partake in the festivities.
One of the most striking features of the Feast of Cats is the use of cat figures and images throughout the celebration. In Mexican folklore, cats are revered as guides for the souls of the deceased, helping them navigate their journey through the afterlife. This belief stems from ancient Mesoamerican cultures, where cats were often associated with the underworld and its deities.
Throughout the Feast of Cats, families also visit gravesites, cleaning and decorating them with offerings such as candles, flowers, and food. These acts of devotion are accompanied by lively music, traditional dances, and storytelling, creating an atmosphere that is both solemn and joyful. The prevalent use of sugar skulls (calaveras de azúcar) and skeleton figurines further emphasizes the idea of death as a natural part of life's cycle, rather than something to be feared or avoided.
In many regions, particularly in the state of Michoacán, the Feast of Cats includes a traditional game called "The Dance of the Little Old Men" (La Danza de los Viejitos). This performance features dancers dressed as elderly individuals, wearing masks and colorful attire, who mimic the movements of cats, symbolizing the playfulness and resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
The Feast of Cats is not merely a celebration of death but a profound expression of love, respect, and continuity between generations. It serves as a reminder that those who have passed are still an integral part of their families' lives and collective memory. This rich tapestry of rituals and customs has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, ensuring its preservation for future generations to appreciate and participate in.