The holiday focuses on gatherings of family and friends to pray for and remember friends and family members who have died. 
The celebration occurs on November 1st and 2nd in connection with the Catholic holiday of All Saint's Day which occurs on November 1st and All Soul's Day which occurs on November 2nd.
Traditions include building private altars honoring the deceased, using sugar skulls, marigolds, and the favorite foods and beverages of the departed, and visiting graves with these as gifts.
Many people believe that during the Day of the Dead, it is easier for the souls of the departed to visit the living.
The intent is to encourage visits by the souls, so that the souls will hear the prayers and the comments of the living directed to them. 
Celebrations can take a humorous tone, as celebrants remember funny events and anecdotes about the departed.
What offerings would you place on the alter of your loved ones?
Great photos - love all those colors. Hmmm....I think I'd load it up with candy and desserts~! ;P
ReplyDeleteawesome pictures we don't have any of those kinds of decorations this far north.
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