Dia de los Muertos, Celebrating the Day of the Dead
Although many people think Dia de los Muertos (The Day of the Dead) is somehow similar to Halloween, the only real connection between the two is their close proximity in dates. Dia de los Muertos is celebrated on November 2nd, just two days after Halloween. The Day of the Dead is historically a time for celebration, when people gather to remember and honor those friends and family who have passed on.
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Although the name may sound a little ominous to some, Dia de los Muertos is a day when people gather together, many times in cemeteries to pray, share stories and present offerings to the souls of their loved ones who have passed on.
Alters are built and covered with photos and memorabilia. Large offerings of food and beverages are displayed for the departed. Out of respect, it is tradition to offer items that were loved by those who have left us. Planning for Dia de los Muertos is made throughout the year to ensure a joyous celebration in honor of those we have loved and lost.
The ritual of celebrating and honoring the deaths of loved ones is said to have started as far back as 3000 years ago. In many regions of Mexico it is traditionally believed that the deceased children will return on November 1st and the deceased adults will return on November 2nd. November 1st is often referred to as “Dia de los Inocentes” or “Dia de los Angelitos” (Day of the Innocents or Day of the Little Angels).
A symbol commonly associated with this holiday is the skull. People dress in bright colored costumes with skull-shaped masks or their faces painted to look like skulls. Sugar and chocolate skulls are made for holiday treats. Sweet bread is shaped into the form of skulls and more.
Join us for a look at some of the many time-honored traditions in celebration of the Day of the Dead – Dia do los Muertos:
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