November 1, 2023 – Day of the Dead

Today is Day of the Dead in Mexico and other areas around the world. Although it’s related to the Christian remembrance days of All Saints Day and All Souls Day, it’s a holiday of joyful celebration rather than a somber time. The holiday has roots in the Indigenous Mexican and Aztec rituals of giving offerings to honor the dead and their journey to a final resting place. In Medieval Europe, Spain had similar traditions. In these cultures, the dead were seen as still being members of the community, alive in memory and spirit. During Day of the Dead, it was believed that the spirits temporarily returned to Earth.
The centerpiece of the celebration is an altar, which is usually built in homes and at cemeteries. On the altar are the favorite food and drink of the deceased, along with photos and memorabilia to welcome the spirits back to the land of the living. A sweet bread called Pan de muerto, or bread of the dead, is commonly left out as an offering. Tamales, candied pumpkin, and spicy Mexican hot chocolate are also common dishes. Monarch butterflies play a part in the celebration as well, because they’re believed to hold the spirits of the departed. This belief comes from the fact that the first monarchs arrive in Mexico for the winter each year on November 1.
Day of the Dead is a very social holiday with celebrations spilling into the street and public squares at all hours of the day. People often dress up as skeletons and wear shells or other noisemakers to rouse the dead and keep them close during the festivities. In 2008, UNESCO recognized the holiday by adding it to its list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. It was the first Mexican cultural practice to be recognized. Learn more here.