The Day of the Dead is one of the most emblematic and colorful traditions of Mexico (Illustrative Image Infobae)
The Day of the Dead is one of the most emblematic and colorful traditions in Mexico where, through offerings, the memory of those who have died is honored. The most significant dates are November 1 and 2.
Halloween is commemorated between October 31 and November 2, while November 1 is the day originally assigned in Mexico to reclaim loved ones who are no longer on Earth.
The Day of the Dead is a traditional Mexican celebration that honors the deceased (EFE)
On November 2, the Day of the Dead is commemorated around the world, including in some parts of Argentina, and it is a celebration focused on those people who are no longer here and are remembered on this day to honor their memory.
This tradition has its roots mainly in Mexico, but it also extends to other countries in Latin America and the world that joined this festival. It is a day dedicated to veneration and celebrating with loved ones the joy of having met people who are no longer here and keeping their spirit in mind with some specific rituals.
Day of the Dead is a traditional Mexican celebration that honors the deceased. Its origins date back to pre-Hispanic civilizations such as the Aztecs, Mexica, Purépecha, Nahuas and Totonacs, who worshiped death. These cultures viewed death as an integral part of life and believed in the existence of a continuous cycle. Later, with the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century and their Christian influence, the holiday merged with Catholic traditions such as All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
Currently, the Day of the Dead is a synthesis of these pre-Hispanic and Catholic traditions and is celebrated mainly on November 1 and 2, with altars, offerings and visits to cemeteries to remember and honor deceased loved ones. In 2008, UNESCO declared this festival as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The Day of the Dead offering serves to honor and remember loved ones who have passed away (Illustrative Image Infobae)
When the Day of the Dead approaches, various activities and events are prepared, such as placing an ofrenda in homes. It is a Mexican tradition that honors deceased loved ones. It consists of an altar with several levels decorated with symbolic elements and objects that the deceased appreciated in life. Common items include photographs, candles, marigold flowers, sugar skulls, papel picado, typical food, water, salt and bread.
Each of these elements has a specific meaning to guide and receive the spirits during their visit on these dates. The Day of the Dead offering is a way to welcome their spirits during the days when they are believed to return to the world of the living. The elements offered are designed to guide, feed and please the deceased, ensuring that their visit is pleasant and close to their loved ones.
All Saints’ Day is a Christian holiday celebrated on November 1
All Saints’ Day is a Christian holiday celebrated on November 1. It is dedicated to honoring all saints and martyrs, both known and unknown, who have achieved sainthood in the Christian faith. The celebration has its roots in the Catholic religious tradition and seeks to recognize those who have lived in an exemplary manner according to Christian principles. It is a day of reflection and prayer, in which a large number of people visit cemeteries to remember their deceased loved ones. In some countries, this date is associated with various cultural and religious traditions that complement the spiritual meaning of the day.
