"Mexico: A Land of Culture and Tradition" Mexico by lamentforicarus

Mexico Travel Guide: 25,410 reviews and 46,327 photos

A woman selling sugar skulls in the market

Celebrating El Dia de los Muertos

El Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a colorful and festive occasion dedicated to remembering friends and family that have departed this world. Its origins date back to the 16th century, when the Catholic tradition of All Soul's Day (observed November 2) was introduced to Mexico by the Spanish and blended with native beliefs. It has since evolved to become an important time of remembrance, celebrating the lives of the deceased and observing death as a natural part of life.

Families visit local cemeteries where loved ones have been laid to rest, clean and decorate the graves, and socialize in remembrance of their beloved. Many families conduct all night vigils, setting out pungent flowers and lighting candles around the graves to lure the souls of their relatives. In the home, families build ofrendas (alters) adored with pictures of the deceased to honor and pay tribute to his or her life. In many households, money must be saved throughout the year in preparation for what may be a family's most important holiday.

Walking through the cemeteries of Mexico on November 2nd is truly remarkable, smelling the sweet aroma of brightly colored zempasuchiles (see my Local Customs pages) and seeing three generations laugh and celebrate the life of a loved one. In the bustling markets, merchants stack their ornate calaveras de azucar or bake Pan de Muerte(see my Local Customs pages). To experience El Dia de los Muertos is to learn more about the intriguing traditions of a fascinating country and explore a different perspective of this life and the next.

Intro Updated May 28, 2004
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Reviews (5)

Virgin de Guadalupe Local Customs (4)

The Virgin of Guadalupe is the patron Saint of Mexico. According to legend, an indian peasent named Juan Diego was... more travel advice

An Appetite for Sugarcane? Shopping (1)

In many parts of Mexico, sugar cane is harvested and sold at vendor stands like these. Men use machetes to hack the cane... more travel advice

Folk Art and Toys of El Dia de los... Local Customs (4)

Skeleton figures are common toys among young children during El Dia de los Muertos. Again, these toys are made to... more travel advice

Calaveras and El Dia de los Muertos - Mexico

Calaveras and El Dia de los Muertos Local Customs (4)

Calaveras de azucar (sugar skulls) are found in markets throughout Mexico during the Day of the Dead. The skull is... more travel advice

Travelogues (1)

Written May 2, 2004

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Comments (4)

arasnosliw Dec 10, 2004 at 5:35 PM Report Abuse

I once tried to make a calavera and it turned out disastrous. so much for that project. I love these photos of a great mexican tradition.
CALSF Sep 27, 2004 at 8:43 PM Report Abuse

Very informative tips; BTW, chewing on sugar cane is also considered a treat in the Caribbean islands. It's really good! Just realized my b'day is on day of the dead.;-)
JetlagCity Sep 4, 2004 at 9:21 PM Report Abuse

Could their treatment of death be any more different from ours?! Fabulous shots of las calaveras de azucar!
orlikins May 26, 2004 at 2:08 PM Report Abuse

very interesting read! :-)