November 1 marks the celebration of All Saints Day. Guatemala will hold its annual kite celebration in the town of Sumpango and Santiago Sacatepéquez - Festival de Barriletes Gigantes (Giant Kite Festival) - a Mayan tradition that dates back almost 3,000 years. Thousands of residents and tourists gather as the sky becomes engulfed by breathtaking, uniquely designed kites of all colors and sizes. The vibrant colors and designs of the kites were crafted to represent those who have passed while helping the living connect with their ancestors. However, as the years have gone by, the messaging of the kite designs have shifted to represent current social issues such as suicide prevention, government corruption, and other powerful messages to promote peace among the living. Artists begin conceptualizing the design of the kites months in advance using all natural resources including yucca flower, cloth and bamboo. During this celebration, local communities also indulge in Fiambre - a traditional Guatemalan salad dish that combines a variety of ingredients from vegetables and cheeses to different meats. Located just 20 minutes away from Sumpango in the lush outskirts of Antigua, Villa Bokeh serves as the perfect lodging option for those wanting to experience this spectacular kite festival for themselves. The luxury, 15-room hacienda in the heart of a 6-acre garden offers guests an experience as exclusive as it is unique.
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