Written By Leanna Sheffield
Arts and Culture
Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the dead in English, is a traditional Mexican holiday celebrated Nov. 1-2 The holiday comes from the belief that the passage between the mortal and spiritual world allows our deceased loved ones to visit during the holiday. November 1st is seen as the day of the children, and is known as Día de los Angelitos.There is also a day devoted to the spirits of pets which usually falls on Oct. 27th.
To invite spirits into the home, altars called ofrendas are created. These consist of photos and important possessions of the deceased. There are also common symbols that represent the day of the dead. Marigolds, sugar skulls, colorful decorations, and candles are all traditional things used in relation to the holiday. Marigolds are left as a colorful sign of life, and are often left as a trail to guide the spirits home. Other colorful decorations are used to indicate a celebration of life instead of the mourning in death.
Although it is a Mexican holiday, it is also celebrated in the US. Movies like Coco and the book of life have been made highlighting the traditions and bringing awareness to the holiday. The USPS has also made stamps for the holiday.