Food is symbolic and is considered to be an ofrenda (offering) to the dead. Its influence has spread as inspiration for other Latinxs to honor their loved ones through this sacred celebration.įood plays a tremendous role in Día de los Muertos. Over time, the eventual intertwining of Mexican Indigenous beliefs and folk customs from the Catholic Church that make up the largely mainstream understanding of Día de los Muertos has branched out. Día de los Muertos is celebrated in Mexican households from Nov. It's seen as a momentous homecoming for the spirits of our beloved dead ancestors. This ethereal portal is an opportunity to heal through reconnection. During this time a dimension opens that allows access to spirits. 1, the Aztecas and pagans, respectively in separate cultures, understood this annual period as a time when the veil between the spirit realm and the living realm is thin. This was a time when they celebrated their passed loved ones with food and various offerings.įrom Oct. As a result of this philosophy, Día de los Muertos naturally progressed into a cultural ritual for the Indigenous people of the region. The Aztecas believed that death wasn't the end. The truth is, Día de los Muertos is a spiritual holiday and it coincides with All Souls' Day and All Saints' Day, which are Catholic holidays that derive from pagan influence.Īside from the religious influence of the Spaniards, the roots originally tie back to the Aztecas of Mexico. In fact, that's far from the truth and highly offensive. And no, Día de los Muertos is not a Mexican version of Halloween. Candles are often left in the form of a cross to represent the cardinal directions, so the spirits can find their way.Why is Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, celebrated subsequent to Halloween? Well, the two actually have no relation. Earth is represented by food, especially bread. Papel picado, or traditional paper banners, represent the wind. "Water is left in a pitcher so the spirits can quench their thirst. "Every ofrenda also includes the four elements: water, wind, earth and fire," according to the Smithsonian's website. The Offering: What It is and WhyĪccording to the Smithsonian, the offering on the altar is central to any celebration, but it is also specific. Her likeness is often found in statues, figurines, artwork and even as many dress up and paint their faces. Many will also recognize the symbols of La Catrina, who is believed to protect loved ones after they depart and bring them to the next part of their journey. "Yet, all carry the same message, celebrating the day of the dead is a true celebration of life. "The rituals used to celebrate the day are varied and colorful," the university states. The Latino Cultural Center in Dallas is preparing a showcase for "DíaDe Los Muertos", also known as "Day of the Dead." Such altars are often decorated with marigold flowers, candles, a special and sweet bread known as Pan de Muerto, and photos of the person they are honoring. "Many set up altars in their homes and often communities host a variety of events," the university's website reads. "While some may think this holiday is a gloomy one, it is the complete opposite."Īccording to the University of New Mexico, the day typically features a journey to gravesites, but in many cases, loved ones will create an altar for those they are honoring. "It’s a time where we remember and honor loved ones who have passed," Choose Chicago's website reads. The day is a celebration of the lives of loved ones who have passed away.
The Day Actually Celebrates Life, Not Death See InsideĬollectively, the three days are sometimes referred to as the Days of the Dead, though the holiday itself is strictly on Nov. ‘Harry Potter: Magic at Play' Experience Opens in Chicago Friday.
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