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EL
Dia
de
Los
Muertos
El
día de los muertos
is celebrated on November
2nd.
It is one of the biggest holidays in Mexico, and
celebrations are becoming more common in areas of
the United States with a large Hispanic population.
Its origins are distinctly Mexican: During the time
of the Aztecs, a month long summer celebration was
overseen by the goddess Mictecacihuatl, the
Lady of the Dead. After the Aztecs were conquered by
Spain and Catholicism became the dominant religion,
the customs became intertwined with the Christian
commemoration of All Saints' Day on November 1st.
Specifics of the celebration vary with region, but
one of the most common customs is the making of
elaborate altars to welcome departed spirits home.
Vigils are held, and families often go to cemeteries
to fix up the graves of their departed
relatives. Festivities also frequently include
traditional foods such as pan de
muerto
(bread of the dead), which can conceal a miniature
skeleton.
Candles light the path for the
souls Families visit the
commentaries
Here are some other Web sites where you can learn
more about this celebration.
An explanation for tourists
Day of the Dead
An award-winning author and photographer presents a
thorough site devoted to this Mexican tradition.
Day of the Dead in Mexico
A good explanation for visitors to Mexico
The Day of the Dead.
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