Dia de los Muertos (Mon 02-Nov-09) | ||||
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Dia de los Muertos Every year between October 31 and November 2 Mexicans celebrate Dia de los Muertos or "Day of the Dead". It is believed that spirits of the dead visit their families at this time and various festivities are held in their honor. This is an ancient Aztec tradition which originally took place during the ninth month of the Aztec Solar Calendar, relating to the beginning of August. Death was considered a continuation of life and this was a time for joy as the living were joined by the spirits of their loved ones who have passed away. When the Spanish came to Mexico, about 500 years ago, they moved the festival to November after failling to eradicate it. This way it fell on the same date as All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day, two Christian holidays celebrating the dead. Inevitably, the ancient ritual has merged with Christian tradition although many of the original celebrations remain today. Most families make altars in their homes and offer food. Graves of the relatives are visited and decorated with marigolds and sugar skulls which symbolize death and rebirth. People wear wooden masks (calacas) and dance in honor of the dead. |