Friday, October 28, 2022

A Time of Remembrance: Dia de Los Muertos


November 1st and 2nd, people around the world celebrate The Day of the Dead also known Dia de los Muertos. It is believed that during these two days, the souls of the dead come back to visit their living loved ones.

Dia de Los Muertos is a time for families and friends to pay tribute and send love to those who are no longer on Earth. Unlike Halloween the day before, this celebration is not about terror and tricks but instead, it is a time of remembrance.

Unfolding in a burst of color and life-sustaining joy, the fete is not limited to a few main colors like black and orange: it's a delightful display of vibrant hues like bright purples, pinks, orange, blues, white, and black. During this time, people journey to their family burial grounds and decorate their loved one's graves or ofrendas (alters) in a festive and fun way. Portraits of the deceased, along with items that belonged to them or they enjoyed (like a favorite beverage or snack) are included in the decor.


The cempasĂșchil, a variety of marigold flower native to Mexico, is often placed on ofrendas and around graves. Their vibrant color petals are used to make a path that leads the spirits from the cemetery to their families’ homes. Plus, the marigold’s distinct smell when paired with the right kind of candle, allows the departed to return for a brief time to enjoy the pleasures of the world they left behind once more.

Death is considered part of the journey of life. Rather than death being the end of life. Families view death as the beginning of the cycle of seasons and new life.

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