The Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) Holiday is a Mexican tradition honoring deceased loved ones. The celebration takes place November 1st (All Saints Day) and 2nd (All Souls Day), and involves spending time decorating gravesites with very colorful adornments and creating equally decorated altars in their homes welcoming the spirits of the family members.
The ancient indigenous peoples of Mexico believed souls from their dead relatives returned every year to visit the living. The dead and undead celebrated together with food, drink and festivities.
Altars are created in the family home for the departed. Family members light candles, burn incense, pray and chant for the dead. The festivities include the favorite food and drink of the deceased. At 6:00 p.m. bells are rung and then continue every 30 seconds to summon the dead. The ringing continues until sunrise.
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