Mexico's Day of the Dead Celebration

The Dia de los Muertos or "Day of the Dead", which occures the first and second days of November is not as morbid as many people would think. It is not a celebration of death itself, but rather a celebration to loved ones which have passed away. A holiday that has a long history, Day of the Dead may have originated from thousands of years ago, and to an Aztec festival dedicated to a goddess called Mictecacihuatl or "The Lady of the Dead".

Children and adults are celebrated on different days. In most regions of Mexico, November 1st honors deceased children and infants where as deceased adults are honored on November 2nd. This is indicated by generally referring to November 1st as "Día de los Angelitos" (Day of the little angels) and November 2nd as "Día de los Difuntos."

Many observants believe that during the Day of the Dead, it is easier for the souls of the departed to visit the living. People will go to cemeteries to communicate with the souls of the departed, and will build private altars, containing the favorite foods and beverages, and photos and memorabilia, of the departed. The intent is to encourage visits by the souls, so that the souls will hear the prayers and the comments of the living directed to them. Celebrations can take a humorous tone, as celebrants remember funny events and anecdotes about the departed.

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