1. Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos)

2. Day of the Dead is celebrated in the following countries: Mexico In some parts of the United States, where there is a large Hispanic population. In parts of Canada where there is Hispanic populations.

3. Day of the Dead to the Hispanic culture is a lot like Halloween to the American culture. During this holiday they celebrate and remember those who have passed away. Day of the Dead starts at midnight of October 31 st and goes to November 2 nd. This has become one of the biggest holidays in Mexico and is also in some other countries.

4. When people go to the graves to visit their loved ones, the intent is to encourage visits by the deceased, so that their souls can hear the prayers and comments of the living that is directed to them.

5. One of the most common customs involved with Day of the Dead is the making of elaborate alters to welcome departed spirits. Often families go to cemeteries to fix up their departed loved ones graves. The common symbol of the holiday is a skull.

6. Pillows and blankets are left out so that the deceased can rest after their long journey. Some people spend all night by the graves of their deceased loved ones. Also in many places people have picnics at the gravesides of the deceased.

7. Families often offer trinkets or the deceased’s favorite candies on their graves. Also as a part of the ofrendas they put foods such as candied pumpkins, sugar skulls, and beverages such as atole. Sugar Skulls are gifts that can be given to both the living and the dead.

8. The End By: Katia M.