Water is left in a pitcher to give the spirits something to quench their thirst. These elements represent the deceased person’s journey as they find the path to rest in peace finally. The four elements: Ofrendas include the four elements of water, wind, earth, and fire. Some items that are included in a Day of the Dead altar are: This important part of the holiday incorporates most of the elements of the festivities, which makes it one of the most impactful and essential traditions of the Day of the Dead holiday. Perhaps the most important of Día de los Muertos traditions is the building of the altar. The traditional Día de los Muertos altar and its meaning It’s believed that during the celebration, families have permission to communicate with the dead and visit those they love while they celebrate together. ![]() It’s a way to celebrate life and death together in a meaningful way that honors those who have lost their lives. During the two days, Mexicans eat food, drink, and celebrate with dancing, music, and extravagant costumes. It is not meant as a time of mourning but more as a celebration to pay honor and respect to the life of those who are lost. It serves as a way to honor those who have passed on by allowing people to communicate with their loved ones after they go on to the next realm. This unique holiday is an extremely meaningful part of Mexican culture. She wears a large hat, fancy jewelry, and in 1947, famous artist Diego Rivera depicted her on a mural in a full-length gown. La Catrina: This legendary skeleton became the face of Day of the Dead celebrations after artist Jose Guadalupe Posada portrayed her in a 1910 etching to represent Mexico’s elite. A community celebration occurs, and bands play as people dance to perform for their loved ones’ souls. On November 2 nd, they visit the grave and bring food to the cemetery to attract the spirits. Grave visitation: The families clean the graves at the cemetery to prepare for the spirit’s arrival. It’s said that the strong fragrance of the colorful flower will lead their soul home. Offerings are given, including food, tequila or their favorite alcoholic drink, and flowers like marigolds. ![]() The altars typically include candles, photos of the deceased, and some items they may leave behind. ![]() As the celebrations became more widespread, the holiday was celebrated through a variety of cultural traditions.Īltars: People build altars called ofrendas in their homes, which honor the souls of the departed. The unique history of Mexico’s Day of the Deadĭía de los Muertos can be traced back as far as the Aztecs, who used skulls to honor and celebrate the dead for centuries before the Spanish conquered their empire in the 16 th century. It’s estimated that approximately 28-percent of the American population celebrates Día de los Muertos, with the percentages much higher in Mexico. Altars or ofrendas are often built inside peoples’ homes and adorned with flowers, food, candles, and photos of their loved ones. Others enjoy celebrating with food, alcohol, and skull masks or sugar skulls called calacas. ![]() Many people decorate graves with marigolds, candles, and some of the favorite food of their deceased relatives. This legendary holiday is celebrated in many ways, depending on the region. Originally, the Day of the Dead was celebrated for a month, but when the Spanish arrived in Mexico, it was moved to coincide with All Saint’s Day and All Souls’ Day. The origins of the holiday come from the rituals of the pre-Hispanic peoples of Mexico. It is observed throughout Latin America and the United States as a way to honor dead loved ones by making peace with their passing. Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos, is a Mexican holiday celebrated on November 1st and 2nd.
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