Dia de Los Muertos

November 1 and 2 are the traditional days to celebrate what is known as "Day of the Dead." This Latin holiday is thought to have been brought to Mexico by the Spanish conquistadors, who tried to bridge Aztec rituals with Roman Catholicism. The idea behind the holiday is to remember deceased loved ones by celebrating their lives, rather than mourning their deaths. Part of the celebration includes food, drink, parties, and activities that were enjoyed by the deceased. During the celebration, graves are cleaned and decorated, altars or shrines are set up with gifts (ofrendas) for the deceased family member, and picnics and dances are held at the cemeteries. Orange marigolds are often left at the graves of adults, while white orchids are placed at childrens' graves. Calacas and calaveras (skeletons and skulls) are typical decorations during the celebration, and pan de muertos and sugar skulls are special treats.
Our neighbor took us to visit her husband's gravesite at the local cemetery, and it just happened to fall on one of the days of the celebration. Even in our little village, the festival is alive and well (no pun intended!)