The day after Halloween is more than a night to put away your candy and fake cobwebs, it’s a time to honor the family and friends you’ve lost on Día de los Muertos.
The Day of the Dead - in English - is a Mexican holiday observed over two days, Nov. 1 and 2, that honors and welcomes back families’ deceased loved ones and relatives, with celebration, food and music.
Origins of “Día de los Muertos” trace back centuries
The origin of Día de los Muertos stretches back over 3,000 years to pre-Columbian Mesoamerica, according to History. The holiday emerged from the Aztec ritual known as Miccaihuitl, an honoring of the dead. The Aztecs also honored harvesting during this time, recognizing the seasonal shift from summer to fall, according to Michelle Téllez, an associate professor at the University of Arizona.
When the Spanish arrived to the Americas, bringing with them All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, Christian and Catholic days of honoring those who’ve passed, the modern Día de los Muertos was formed.
Calaveras, Conchas and Celebraciones
Every household celebrates Día de los Muertos differently, but each with the same goal of finding ways to honor their deceased loved ones.
Most families make altars for their loved ones, holding tight to the idea that if you remember them they’ll never die. The altars often have photos of loved ones, with their favorite foods, toys and flowers.
There are also traditional items that can be added to the altar, representing the four elements, according to Professor Telléz. Fire is often represented by a candle or incense, water by a cup of water and earth and wind by papel picado.
Families will surround the altar for the two day holiday, with some in celebration, others in solemn, honoring the lives lost.
A pan de muerto or in English, day of the dead bread, can also often be found on the altars. The sugar coated sweet bread in the shape of a skull honors the cycle of life and death.
A time for reflection
Día de los Muertos presents a great opportunity for reflection. A time to step back from the business of life and honor those you’ve lost and continue to hold close. Regardless if you’re religious or come from Hispanic heritage, I encourage you to take part in the holiday to pause and think about your loved ones.
You don’t have to have a detailed altar, a simple picture and flower works. What matters is the time spent remembering your loved ones.
