day of the dead

Riel,

We know that the Day of the Dead is a holiday in Mexico, but what is it celebrating? How do they celebrate and what are some traditions from this holiday?

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Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos)

November 2

In Mexico the Day of the Dead is a very popular tradition. But all over Latin America it is celebrated as well. Even in Canada and the US, since there are serveral Latin Americans who live in both countries.

The Day of the Dead is a holiday to gather friends and families to remember there loved ones who have died. Traditions for this holiday include building private altars honoring the deceased using sugar skulls, marigolds and the favourite foods and beverages of the departed, and visiting the graves with these as gifts. Toys are also brought for children and tequila for adults.

Day of the Dead originated with the Olmecs, the first Mesoamerican civilization centred in Veracruz, whose origins remain mysterious.

In Oaxaca, in southern Mexico, they celebrate the day of the dead for a whole week. The festival is decorated all over the streets, with altars, skulls, marigolds and candles. They believe that the dead return on this day to be with their families and friends to eat, drink and be merry and relive the good memories.