Day of the Dead

Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos in Spanish, is a Mexican holiday celebrated to honor friends and family members who have died. It is celebrated in Mexico, Central America, the United States, and other Catholic parts of the world. Day of the Dead festivities are thought to help the dead on their spiritual journey. Day of the Dead is celebrated over several days, beginning on October 31 and ending on November 2. These dates coincide with the Catholic religion’s triduum (three days of religious observance) of All Hallows’ Eve, All Saints’ Day, and All Souls’ Day.

Day of the Dead was celebrated in Mexico by the indigenous Aztec tribes for thousands of years. When the Spanish conquistadors...