Sponsored By Akumal MX

Día de Muertos is a time of reflection, remembrance, and celebration in Mexico, and Akumal is embracing this beautiful tradition through creativity and expression. This year, the Telesecundaria and Telebachillerato schools in Akumal are hosting a special Calaveritas Contest for their students, encouraging them to honor their heritage and showcase their artistic talents.

What are Calaveritas?

Calaveritas, or “little skulls,” are playful and satirical short poems traditionally written during Día de Muertos. These verses humorously depict people—often friends, family, or public figures—encountering death in lighthearted or ironic situations. They are a way of confronting death with wit and laughter, embodying the Mexican spirit of finding joy in even the most serious aspects of life.

Contest Rules

The contest is open to students of the Telesecundaria and Telebachillerato in Akumal. Calaveritas must be written in Spanish and include between 4-10 lines. Entries should creatively reflect the spirit of Día de Muertos, incorporating local customs, teachers, or everyday life in Akumal. All entries must be submitted to the school’s respective teachers by October 30th. Poems will be judged based on originality, humor, cultural relevance, and adherence to the traditional style of Calaveritas.

Family, teachers, and friends can help with the writing process, but plagiarism is not allowed.

Prizes and Recognition

All winning Calaveritas will be published on the AkumalMX.com website and will be exhibited at the Akumal MX altar on Half Moon Bay. The contest includes prizes for each grade level in the secondary school and each semester in the high school.

Prizes are as follows:

• 1st Place: Cinépolis gift card
• 2nd Place: Choice of Akumal MX t-shirt, cap, or mug
• 3rd Place: Reusable shopping bag

Encouraging Creativity and Tradition

This contest is all about celebrating the unique cultural heritage of Akumal and inspiring students to explore their creative sides. By participating, students become part of a long-standing tradition that blends art, humor, and community spirit. It’s a wonderful opportunity to keep this meaningful practice alive and thriving among the younger generations.

If you’re a student at the Telesecundaria or Telebachillerato in Akumal, don’t miss out! Grab your pen, let your imagination run wild, and bring your best Calaverita to life.

For more information, please contact hola@akumalmx.com. We can’t wait to read your creative poems and celebrate Día de Muertos together!