A day where the deceased enter the living world once again.
Dia de los Muertos , or Day of the Dead, is an auspicious holiday that’s greatly anticipated in Mexico, and many other regions. It’s a day where families take a break and come together to honor their ancestors. Consisting of baking, music, and crafts, people of all ages look forward to this holiday.
Centuries ago, Spaniards came to Mexico, introducing their traditions and beliefs to the Aztecs. Creating a blend of both of their diverse cultures, Dia de los muertos formed to honor the goddess Mictecacihuatl. Over the years, this holiday has spread, allowing everyone else to participate in these customs. Now, this day is known worldwide with many regions conducting events and parades for this holiday. However, Mexico, the place where the holiday was born, is where the holiday is most popular, with everyone getting a day off to prepare for this auspicious event.
To allow the deceased souls into the living world, there are requirements. On this day, altars , also known as ofrendas, are decorated with pictures of the deceased, candles, marigold flowers, and mexican food such as bread. It also includes many of their favorite things, such as their food or special items. The altar is required to be covered in these items as they act as a passageway allowing the souls to enter.
Furthermore, another crucial part of celebrating this holiday includes skulls. To represent how death is a part of life, children and adults come together and decorate skulls. Every skull is different, with different patterns or different items. The deceased soul’s life is depicted in these crafts, including memories or their favorite things. Carla Chaviz, a sophomore in IB, exclaims “One of my favorite parts of Dia de los muertos is painting the skulls and cooking. Me and my family get together and make dishes like bread.”
In addition to the altars, parades and parties are held in many cities and towns. People paint their faces like skulls, costumes, and play music, making a festive atmosphere. The most famous one is La Catrina, an elegant female skeleton often dressed in fancy clothes. A junior, Kayli Schutt, says “Me and my parents usually go to any parades nearby. It’s always filled with contests and parades and stands.”
Dia de los Muertos is an important holiday that allows families to become closer no matter the distance, with many families traveling far distances to be together. Cemeteries transform into colorful gathering places where families clean and decorate graves, share meals, and spend time together.
In the end, Día de los Muertos isn’t really about mourning the dead. It celebrates life and honors their memories. Through different activities, the deceased are brought back to life for a short time, creating a festive atmosphere and bringing the communities and families together.