Finding the Mayan god
of smoking and drinking in Guatemala: When you visit Guatemala, you may run
into images of an intriguing folk saint who, to some tourists, is known
as the “god of smoking and drinking.” Maximón is depicted in European dress
with trousers, shirt and hat. You’ll find him seated with a cigar in his mouth
or an opening where alcohol can be poured. Not the usual saintly image! We
actually visited Maximón in a little village and witnessed the dedication of
his appeasers. Yes, it was weird. Shamans sat drinking, chanting and smoking,
all in the name of religion. More
on Maximón.
Santos or Beatles? In
northern New Mexico there is a man of Hispanic descent who retired and started
painting religious paintings. But what is weird about these paintings is that
his most collected are his depictions of the Beatles as saints! You'll find
Richard's work at Theresa's Gallery in Chimayo. More
on the Beatles Painter.
Santa Fe Pet Parade:
In this traditional Santa Fe event during the time of Fiesta, you'll find
children and adults alike parading their pets through the downtown streets. About
2,000 children in costumes participate in the parade, with thousands of
supporters and tourists looking on. This event culminates with an awards
ceremony on the historic Plaza de Santa Fe.
In addition to the children you'll see plenty of dogs, some
chickens, ducks, turtles, guinea pigs and many more pets. I even saw a young
girl carrying her pet lizard in a terrarium. There is so much imagination in
Santa Fe! More
on the Pet Parade.
The Burning of
Zozobra: Easily the most popular Fiesta event takes place at Fort Marcy
Park with the Burning of Zozobra,
also known as “Old Man Gloom.” At the ceremony, Zozobra, a 50-foot tall white
marionette typically dressed in a black bow-tie, black belt and cuffs, neon
green glowing eyes and huge red lips, goes up in flames to burn away all of the
hardships and disappointments of the past year. There is no way to overstate
the spectacle, party atmosphere, and sheer zaniness of Zozobra. More
on Fiesta and Zozobra.
A Festival of Gourds:
Just south of Phoenix is a festival that just may make you chuckle. It is the
Wertz Gourd Festival. There is plenty of “gourdgeous art” to keep you
interested. Look for more than 100 Gourd Artists and Vendors. In one building
you’ll find the Arizona Gourd Society's Judged Show. Gourd enthusiasts can take
classes - Kindergourden - 4 days of reserved classes.
I love finding interesting stories. Each of these finds was
weird in its own way. And, I thoroughly enjoyed each and every one of the
experiences!
Photography copyright: Elizabeth Rose Photography
