The Day of the Dead is not a Mexican version of our Halloween (although some of our customs such as dressing up in costumes or "trick-or-treating" have begun to infiltrate the celebration.) It is an occasion that is both festive and solemn, and draws upon Catholic and pre-Hispanic traditions. It is a day to remember and honor departed family members. Families go to the cemeteries and place flowers on the graves of their loved ones. (The traditional flower for the occasion is the orange marigold.) In some places families will spend the night at the cemetery holding a candle lit vigil and picnic by the grave. Favorite foods and beverages of the deceased will be set out in the belief that the spirits of the dead return to earth and consume the essence of those offerings. In many homes an "ofrenda" is set up... a table decorated with flowers, candles, photographs and mementos of the departed relative, and food and beverage. Bakeries sell "pan de muerto" (bread of the dead), a round loaf topped with dough or frosting decorations in the form of bones. Children receive a special treat... little skulls made of sugar.
"Ofrendas" are also set up in many commercial establishments, schools and museums. Some are humorous, as if to laugh in the face of death. Below are some photographs of Day of the Dead "ofrendas" and displays that I have seen on previous trips to Mexico City during the month of November.
This "ofrenda" was set up by the bellringers of the Cathedral of Mexico in one of the bell towers.
Part of the "ofrenda" at the Hostería de Santo Domingo, the oldest restaurant in Mexico City
The Dolores Olmedo Museum sets up an especially elaborate "ofrenda"
A floral display at the entrance to the Church of San Francisco
"Seré recordado - I will be remembered"
And finally, I received a gift for Día de los Muertos...
a skull made, not of sugar, but of white chocolate!
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Happy Halloween!
¡Feliz Día de los Muertos!
Boo! Happy Halloween for sure.
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