November 1st & 2nd in Mexico mark the Days of the Dead or Los Dias de los Muertos. Despite the somber name, the Days of the Dead are a time to remember and celebrate the lives of departed loved ones. The souls of departed children are thought to visit on November 1st, while adult souls visit on November 2nd.
To entice and please the souls, altars are set up mostly in private homes. Candles and incense are lit to guide the way for the souls. The altars are decorated with photos of those who have passed, marigolds (the traditional Day of the Dead flower), pan de muerto (bread of the dead), sugar skulls inscribed with names of the departed, and foods and beverages preferred by the deceased. We’ve seen Burger King burgers, plates of enchiladas, and bottles of Coca Cola and tequila. Once a visiting soul has enjoyed a favorite meal, he or she may wish to partake of a familiar pastime. So, you will often see cigarettes for a smoker or toys for a child on altars.
Another Day of the Dead tradition is the visit to the cemetery. Family members of the deceased come to clean and decorate their graves. Often November 1st is reserved for grieving at the gravesite, while November 2nd is reserved for celebration at the grave. Families will bring picnic baskets and booze, celebrating and toasting to their departed loved ones.
Globalization and NAFTA have brought an increased interest in plastic pumpkins and Dracula costumes, and, some think, less interest in traditional Day of the Dead customs particularly among Mexican youth. These traditions are a wonderful way to connect with departed loved ones, and we hope they will continue for a long time.
OK, you have had time to relax. Time to update us on your travels!