Dia De Los Muertos

While the name of this event connotes a somber occasion, El Dia de los Muertos or Day of the Dead, is in fact a time for celebration and festivities in honor and remembrance of the dead and the continuity of life. The official holiday falls on November 2nd which also corresponds with the Catholic All Saints Day and All Souls Day. In Mexico, Day of the Dead is considered by many as the most important holiday. This tradition is also shared in other Latin American countries including Ecuador and Guatemala and among Latino communities in the United States as well.

Day of the Dead has origins dating back to pre-Hispanic times among the indigenous people of Mesoamerica. During the months of August and September, the Aztecs performed rituals and engaged in festivities celebrating death and rebirth. When the Spanish arrived during the 16th century they brought not only their people, but the mission to convert the indigenous population to their religion and way of life. Native populations were forced to assimilate thereby loosing many of their traditional customs as they were once celebrated prior to the Spanish conquest. The Day of the Dead is a result of a mix of native beliefs with Catholic influences.

Today, El Dia de los Muertos is celebrated October 31st through Novemebr 2nd. In the homes, altars are created to honor ancestors. The altars hold ofrendas (offerings) such as sweets and the favorite foods and beverages of the deceased. The altars are also decorated with marigolds, candles, and mementos. Families attend Mass and visit cemeteries of their loved ones where they decorate the gravesites and even picnic there. Spending time at the cemetery is symbolic for families as means of celebrating with family members living and those who have past on.

Here are related web links:
Dia De Los Muertos
Day of the Dead
Mexico's Day of the Dead
Day of the Dead in Mexico