Day Of The Dead And Other International Holidays

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What Is Day Of The Dead?

Dío de los Muertos started as a holiday in Mexico. The holiday was closely linked to All Saints Day.

The celebration traditionally runs from what Americans call Halloween (October 31st) until the day after All Saints Day (November 2nd).

Traditional activities on this day include costumes, gifts, a festive, colorful parade, and exquisitely painted skulls.

All of these celebrations are meant to honor (or at least to acknowledge) the spirits of the dead.

It is a long held belief that at this time of year, the line between the living and the dead becomes blurred.

This day is a culturally Christian tradition, but it can be celebrated by anyone, anywhere, of course.

This holiday developed in Mexico from the ancient traditions of pre-Colombian cultures.

The 'modern' Mexican tradition of honoring the dead dates back to the Spanish colonization of Mexico during the 16th century.

Scroll down to see the details of Day Of The Dead celebrations everywhere.

Above: A scene from Mexico City's Day Of The Dead Parade.

image: 123rf.com

DAY OF THE DEAD CELEBRATION

Mexico's idea has caught on in many parts of the world. After all, death is something we all must share, and all of us have lost loved ones to whom we may offer support on their spiritual journeys.

Some people even see this holiday as an opportunity to communicate with the dead.

But for most people, Dío de los Muertos ia at least a chance to have some colorful community fun.

The first Day Of The Dead parade in Mexico City was held in 2016, as a result of the opening scene from a James Bond film called Spectre. The parade instantly became a tradition.

Other traditional activities include painting skulls, hanging lights, baking bread, visiting grave sites, and building elaborate shrines and alters to dearly departed loved ones.

Traditional foods served for the occasion include tamales, along with whatever were the favorite foods of the departed loved ones we wish to honor.

Since death is a natural part of the human cycle, this day is never seen as a sad occasion. Rather, it is treated as a cause for celebration.