| Keyword |
Description |
| Plañideras |
Women who pretend to cry in contests or funerals |
| Tradition |
A custom that has been practiced for many years |
| Judge |
A person who decides who is the best in a contest |
In San Juan del Río, Mexico, a special contest is held every year, known as the National Mourners Contest, during the Day of the Dead. Women called “plañideras” show who can cry the most dramatically, sometimes throwing themselves on the floor or over a pretend coffin. People come with their families to watch, laugh, and have fun instead of feeling sad. The contest is part of a tradition that started a long time ago, but now it is more about comedy and entertaining the audience.
A group of judges decides who wins by evaluating the costumes, the creativity of the performance, and whether the crying looks genuine. The best mourners get a prize and applause from the crowd. Everyone can attend the contest for free, and it has become an integral part of celebrating the Day of the Dead in Mexico.
Bridging words
These words sound similar in English and Spanish: Why not practice them now?
| English |
Spanish |
| Dramatically |
Dramáticamente |
| Comedy |
Comedia |
| Genuine |
Genuino |
Time to discuss
- Would you like to see this contest?
- Do you think the contest is fun or strange?
- Why do people like funny contests?
Let's write
Answer the following questions in one paragraph:
- Write about a fun tradition in your family.
- If you were a judge, what would you look for in the contest?
