Background on Jessica Esquivias and the Mega Catrina Parade
Jessica Esquivias, the founder and producer of the Mega Catrina Parade, is leveraging this cultural event to promote Mexico’s rich traditions both domestically and internationally. The 12th edition of the parade, set to take place in Mexico City over the weekend, is expected to attract tourists from various countries, including China, Russia, the United States, Japan, and South Korea.
Growing International Interest
Esquivias shares that just days after last year’s parade, she received emails from touroperators in China and Russia requesting the date for this edition so they could book flights and bring tourists. She also mentions growing interest from the United States, Japan, and South Korea.
Increasing Number of Sponsors
The parade has also seen a rise in the number of sponsors. This year, companies such as University Tower, Gayosso, Alpura, Nescafé, Capital Bus, El Salón Tenampa, and the tourist destination Val’Quírico, Tlaxcala will be participating. Notably, the Chinese technology company OPPO has joined as a sponsor for the first time, with some global executives attending and participating in the parade, showcasing their new mobile phone models and live-streaming the event.
OPPO’s Involvement and Cultural Homage
To strengthen their connection with Mexican culture, OPPO has created a character named Ollie Tlazopilli as an homage to Mexico. The company plans to record the parade, send content to OPPO’s global audience, and feature it on their various channels. Although there might be challenges due to time zone differences, OPPO’s digital media manager, Mónica Narváez, is confident about the event’s global reach and its potential to promote Mexico.
Empowering Mexican Maquillistas and Spreading Love
Esquivias emphasizes her mission to empower Mexican maquillistas and the Catrina, while continuing to spread a message of love, joy, and sharing Mexico’s art and tourism with the world. As a cultural facilitator, she aims to rescue and promote Mexican culture through Body Painting México, an association of around 2,000 large-scale makeup artists. This year, approximately 250 artists will perform on Paseo de la Reforma.
Collaboration with ONU Mujeres
The Catrina Parade has also caught the attention of ONU Mujeres (United Nations Women) and its representative in Mexico, Moni Pizani. Pizani highlights that walking alongside thousands of Catrinas signifies affirming equality as a living right, emphasizing that traditions can also serve as spaces for reflection, empathy, and collective action.
Central Message of the Parade
The central message of the Catrina Parade is that in Mexico, they laugh at death because they celebrate life. The Catrina symbolizes equality, unity, and reminds everyone that art is eternal.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Jessica Esquivias? Jessica Esquivias is the founder and producer of the Mega Catrina Parade, aiming to promote Mexican culture both nationally and internationally.
- What is the Mega Catrina Parade? The Mega Catrina Parade is an annual cultural event in Mexico City that celebrates the country’s traditions, particularly during the Day of the Dead.
- Why is OPPO participating in the parade? OPPO, a Chinese technology company, joined as a sponsor to strengthen its connection with Mexican culture and promote its new mobile phone models.
- What is the central message of the Catrina Parade? The central message emphasizes celebrating life and equality, reminding everyone that art is eternal.
