Surviving to Three – Lupita’s Presentación de Tres Años

Within the Mexican culture, which traditionally had a very high infant mortality rate, the Presentación de Tres Años is a celebration for the gift of life received by one’s child. Traditionally celebrated on the child’s third birthday, the presentación is a way for families to join together to give thanks for the life of the child and to ask for continued blessings on him or her. I was honored to be asked by Lupita’s family in Mexico to photograph her Tres Años celebration.

The events of the day included an afternoon mass and blessing at the Parroquia here in Pozos.  Then there was a large gathering of family and friends at the family’s el rancho.  The party included food supplied and prepared by family members — rice, yummy mole, and large steaming vats of beef and pork carnitas.  There was musical entertainment provided by a couple and a karaoke machine while everyone enjoyed their food.  Afterwards, there was a special procession and dance featuring  Lupita and her little escort as family watched and cheered. Then out came the piñatas filled with candies that were broken apart by stick wielding children (I admit it was a little strange to witness Thumbelina joyfully pummeled and torn apart). The night finished off with everyone sharing a rather large cake.

This was my first Tres Años and it gave me a nice glimpse into local culture.  Here’s some of my photographs and a video trailer that were presented to Lupita’s parents:

Here’s the video trailer I made that includes more footage of the event: