From Thursday, October 27 through Wednesday, November 2, the iconic Plaza is hosting their second annual “Mexico Week,” which will include everything from an outdoor market with food and shopping to colorful art installations to cultural activities. It’s all to celebrate the “Day of the Dead” in NYC, a tradition in Mexico that allows people to mourn and then celebrate loved ones who have passed on by creating ofrendas (offerings) to them, sharing memories and spending time in their spiritual presence.
“Mexico Week” is also in partnership with the Consulate General of Mexico in New York and the Mexican Cultural Institute, honoring 200+ years of Mexico’s independence.
The space is made-over with amazing sculptures by Mexican artists, that will also pay homage to cultural traditions. Last year, an 11-foot dragon and a 13.5-foot feathered jaguar made up the alebrijes sculptures, “traditional Mexican folk-art sculptures depicting brightly colored, fantastical creatures who symbolize spiritual guides, meant to lead individuals through the path of life.”
This year, a tribute exhibition for Mexican artist, José Guadalupe Posada, is viewable from October 19th to November 2nd at 10 Rockefeller Plaza. Additionally, Rockefeller Center has put on a public exhibition of the book MONUMENTAL: The public dimension of sculpture 1927-1979, by Pedro Reyes. Coordinated by Museo of Arte Moderno in Mexico City, the exhibition features an extensive overview of modern sculpture in Mexico.
Next are the catrinas, “elegantly dressed skeleton figures synonymous with the Day of the Dead.” Catrinas by Cesar Menchaca are on display for those with tickets to the Top of the Rock.
Then, a traditional ofrenda, a display altar dedicated to those who have passed away, decorates the plaza.
The Tianguis open-air market is free and open to the public from October 28th – October 30th (11am to 10pm); and October 31st – November 2nd (4pm – 10pm). There’s a wide selection of Mexican artisan creations, plus a special area for Tequila Casa Dragones where visitors can learn about the art of sipping tequilas and can personalize their own Casa Dragones Joven bottles with calligraphy in honor of Day of the Dead.
Check it out at Rockefeller Center between 49th and 50th Streets and Fifth and Sixth Aves! Learn more here.
When: October 27 – November 2
Where: Rockefeller Center