Discover how Las Coloradas celebrates Janal Pixan, one of the most meaningful Mayan traditions in Yucatán — a festival of colors, aromas, and memories that honor life
In Yucatán, Janal Pixán —which in Maya means “food of the souls”— is more than a celebration: it is a reunion with those who have departed. Every year, from October 31st to November 2nd, Mayan homes fill with the scent of copal, candles, xpujuc flowers, and traditional dishes that invite loved ones to once again share food and remembrance.
Janal Pixán is one of the oldest and most meaningful Mayan customs. During these days, families prepare altars known as hanal pixano’ob, decorated with photographs, candles, fruits, bread, and traditional dishes such as mucbilpollo—a large tamal baked underground, symbolizing family unity.
In the communities near Las Coloradas and Ría Lagartos, it remains customary to place offerings to the departed by the sea or in natural spaces, as a symbol of respect for the elements that give life: water, salt, and earth.
In the past, Janal Pixán used to be written as Hanal Pixán due to old variations in the transcription of the Maya language into the Latin alphabet. In the earliest adaptations, the letter “H” was used to represent the aspirated sound of the “J”, since there was no standardized writing system at the time. Over time, with the normalization of Yucatec Maya, the “J” was adopted as the correct form to reflect the current pronunciation. Even so, Hanal Pixán remains accepted, as both versions represent the same expression in Maya: “food of the souls.” Therefore, in cultural or ceremonial contexts, it is valid to use either form.
Visiting Las Coloradas during these dates is a truly unique experience. There are no large festivals or city noise — here, the tribute to ancestors can be felt in the air, in the birdsong, and in the reflection of the water.
It is an invitation to honor life, the earth, and Mayan roots — a reminder that every tradition preserves the story of a people who live in harmony with their environment.
Throughout the Janal Pixán season, Las Coloradas is filled with color, flowers, and beautifully decorated altars celebrating the memory of those who have passed.
During the weekends of November, visitors can enjoy special tastings of Yucatecan flavors and admire themed decorations inspired by Janal Pixán, displayed at the park’s reception area — an experience that combines tradition, gastronomy, and the natural charm of the pink lagoons.
Visitors can immerse themselves in this atmosphere of respect, tradition, and natural beauty, surrounded by the pink tones of the lagoons and the spirit of the Mayan people.
Here, nature and tradition intertwine, reminding us that the soul never fades — it simply changes color.
Come to Las Coloradas and celebrate life through color, memory, and the magic of Janal Pixán.
