Day of The Dead
Day of The Dead
Day of The Dead
The Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos, is a holiday that honors the
dead and celebrates their return:
Origin
The Day of the Dead is a combination of the ancient Aztec tradition of celebrating
ancestors with All Souls' Day, a holiday brought to Mexico by Spanish
invaders. It's also rooted in the rituals of pre-Hispanic peoples of Mexico.
When it's celebrated
The Day of the Dead is traditionally celebrated on November 1 and 2, but other
days may be included depending on the location.
How it's celebrated
Families and friends gather to remember their loved ones, often with food, drink,
and celebration. Altars are decorated with flowers, candles, pan de muerto,
ceramic skulls, and pictures of loved ones. Marigolds are a particularly important
flower, as their bright petals are said to guide the spirits of the dead home.
What it's about
The Day of the Dead is a time to remember the deceased and celebrate their
memory. It's also a way to make peace with death by treating it familiarly, without
fear.
Where it's celebrated
The Day of the Dead is widely celebrated in Mexico, and in other places with
large Mexican populations. It's also celebrated in Guatemala, Brazil, and Spain.
Día de los muertos