Día de los muertos (Day of the Dead)

What is it? The Day of the dead is a cultural-religious practice observed to remember and honor the souls of the departed dead. It represents the syncrtetic fusion of mesoamerican indigenous belief and Christian catholic religion.

Where? This practice is observed in parts of Mexico and the northern portion of Central America, including Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras.

When? Although the observance of the Day of the Dead may vary from place to place, it includes the days of November 1 and 2. In some places it may begin in late October and run into early November. November 1 honors the dead children and November 2 honors the adults.

How? The celebration may include any or all of the following: Altars Prayers Visits to Cemeteries Decoration of homes and cemeteries. http://www.azcentral.com/ent/dead/

Today The practice is changing with the influence of television. Elements of Halloween have become part of the observance in some areas. There is, however, an attempt to revive and preserve the practice Even in the United States there are Hispanic communities that observe the Day of the Dead.

That is all for now folks, but if you wish to find out more about the Day of the Dead, visit the following web link (also given in your class page): http://www.azcentral.com/ent/dead/photos/calacas.html