I wasn't here for it so here are some facts about dia de los muertos
- Traditionally, families honor the dead by gathering at home or at the grave sites and serving the favorite foods of the departed at the graveside or leaving it as an offering. The belief is that the spirits of the departed need food and drink to sustain them in their travels between this world and the next. Although it’s best known as a Mexican holiday, El Dia de los Muertos is celebrated in throughout Latin America.
- Dia de los Muertos combines ancient Aztec rituals with the Catholic faith brought to Mexico by Spanish conquistadores.
- Far from a sad occasion, Day of the Dead celebrates the lives of loved ones who have passed away with family gatherings and joyous memories. In Mexico and in many Latin cultures it is the most important holiday.
- This popular holiday is too big for just one day. It’s often celebrated from October 31 until November 2. In some cultures, it’s known as the Days of the Dead.
- November 1 is Dia de los Inocentes, when children are believed to return for 24 hours.. Adult spirits are believed to make an appearance on November 2 when their lives are honored.
- Traveling between this world and the next is hard work. To sustain the spirits as they travel food and drink is placed on the altars, usually favorite dishes of the departed. Each altar also includes Water, Salt and Bread as well as a washbasin for the dead to spruce up when they return.