The Day of the Dead-How the People of Mexico Celebrate it

By Linda Patterson

The Day of the Dead may sound so morbid but it shouldn't. In Mexico, this is the day they give honor to their relatives who have gone ahead. It is not a celebration of death but it is the celebration of life and its importance. This originated back in the pre Hispanic era. This is a fun day where relatives would gather and celebrate. They believe that their deceased families and friends will come back and will celebrate with them. Thus, you will see a lot of foods, there will be music and dances as well.

This is a celebration which originated from the Aztec and their beliefs. Death and rebirth was symbolized by skulls and skeletons. When the Spaniards came to conquer them, they want to stop this celebration because it seemed associated with paganism. They were never successful so instead of celebrating this in August as what they have been used to, they moved it to November 1st and 2nd to coincide with All Saints and All Souls Day respectively. It became a celebration of continuing life.

This shows how much they value their loved ones who passed ahead of them. Moreover, it will make you see how important it is in the culture of Mexicans. There will be music and you will see them dance too. For those little ones who passed, their parents, siblings and other relatives would prepare them candies; likewise offer them toys and gifts as well. This will amaze you because you will not see them mourning. Candles will be lit up to give them light as they come back home.

An altar is being prepared to honor the dead. They would put pictures, favorite foods, and other things that would remind them of this person who have touched their lives. Usually, they would set up in one corner or a table covered with fabric. There would be sugar skulls or candies, marigolds, Pan de Muerto, some would offer pastries and tequila for adults. This is a feast that is why there are a lot of foods involved especially for those who have a big family.

The Day of the Dead is somehow similar to Halloween. The decorations such as skulls, skeletons, candies and candles are among the things that are common to both celebrations. Some other reasons are the fun celebrations, the dressing up and the date of the celebration which is close to October 31.

About the Author:
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