Tihosuco, Quintana Roo — In this Maya community, the annual feast of Santa Ana is kept alive by a group of designated leaders called kuches, who organize the traditional guilds that blend faith, culture, and community.
The tradition, which began in 1985, relies on the kuches — also known as deputies — to ensure the customs are passed to younger generations. This year, Max Chan Kauil and his wife María Maribel Tuz Balam took on the responsibility of leading the Second Guild in honor of Our Lady of Santa Ana, the town’s patron saint.
The festivities run from July 22 to 26, featuring processions with brass band music, colorful banners, prayers, and the traditional sound of aerial fireworks announcing the celebration.
“My wife and I had the great honor of receiving the Second Guild in honor of Our Lady of Santa Ana, a celebration that represents the essence of our Maya culture, our customs, and the deep faith that has united generations of Tihosuco families,” Chan Kauil said.
As part of the handover known as k’ub, the kuch received symbolic items and supplies — including a turkey, a load of corn, and other ingredients — to organize the guild he will lead next year. Chan Kauil said he has already chosen the person to whom he will pass the responsibility, continuing a process maintained by his ancestors for decades.
“My sincere thanks to Francisco Javier Poot Pech for his dedication, commitment, and valuable support to make this guild a success. Your willingness and work are worthy of recognition,” Chan Kauil added. “May Our Lady of Santa Ana abundantly bless everyone who made this celebration possible, and may the faith, culture, and traditions that give us identity as a people never be lost.”
About 50 people participate in the guild headed by Chan Kauil, collaborating in activities that form part of this community tradition.
The annual Santa Ana feast was originally driven by now-deceased residents including teacher Tomás Cahum, Felipe Dzidz, and Cándido Poot Chan, who laid the groundwork for a celebration that continues today in the hands of new generations.
