By Lori Carr EL DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS

One of Mexico’s most famous holidays Celebrated throughout Mexico Mix of Catholic and Aztec beliefs Joyous celebration remembering and honoring the dead Celebrated Oct. 31 st through Nov. 2nd

An important tradition is to build altars and offerings, or ofrendas, for the deceased.

OFRENDAS… Flowers Candles Food Water Papel picado Other personal items

Cempasúchitl (marigolds) are these yellow- orange flowers. They symbolize death and the smell helps guide the spirits to the altars.

Mas Flores

Candles, or velas, are lit for each deceased family member and also one for the forgotten soul to welcome them back.

This man is making bread of the dead also called pan de muertos. It comes in different shapes: skulls, bones, rabbits, etc.

Pan de Muertos

Mas Pan de Muertos

Candy Skulls (Calaveras de Azúcar)

Sugar skulls are symbols of death and afterlife. They are used in the offerings and also given as gifts. Names of the deceased are usually written on the skulls.

Making tamales for the offering

Other foods and drinks the deceased may have enjoyed. The souls smell the aromas and it helps lead them back to their altars.

Skeletons are also popular decorations used in the offerings, or ofrendas.

Papel picado is used in decorating the altar. It is similar to cut tissue paper and is hung on the top of the altar or around the edges.

November 1 st is used to honor and remember infants and young children who have died. This is a picture of a tomb decorated as a truck for a young boy.

November 2 nd is the day to honor and remember adults who have died.

Preparing altars and offerings

The altar and offering are done. The lady is now celebrating her loved one and waiting for the visit.

Vigils at night in cemeteries. Families celebrate and remember good times with their deceased loved ones. It is believed the deceased souls will visit their altars and loved ones during this time.