On Sunday in Merida (Merida en Domingo), the Centro explodes with a Yucatecan celebration of life.  Streets normally bustling with traffic are cordoned off for the pleasure of the people.   Families fresh from church services wearing their finest, lovers holding hands, Mexican and international tourists converge to savor the day.

Aromas from the food stands  encircling the plaza tease the appetite, forcing choices.  Perhaps tacos or tortas   (sandwiches) of grilled beef or roast pork, tamales steaming in glistening green banana leaves, a Yucatecan turkey soup, a giant basket of french fries, ice creams of corn (yes, corn), coconut or avocado, colorful candies and pastries.  Impossible to sample all in one day, there’s always next Sunday.

A riot of colors paint the center of the plaza, where vendors offer something for all, many handcrafted and at very reasonable prices.  Bright toys that dance, traditional guayabera shirts, cool white embroidered huipile dresses, sweets and the alcoholic Mayan drink xtabentun made from honey, jewelry, and native herbs to treat everything from arthritis to obesity.

And if this weren’t entertainment enough, there are free music and dance performances showcasing the culture of the Yucatan! 

See you in Merida next Sunday!

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