Dia de los Muertos, also known as Day of the Dead, is a two-day holiday celebrated on November 1st and 2nd, which originated several thousand years ago with the Aztec, Toltec, and other Nahua people. The holiday is a combination of pre-Hispanic religious rites and Christian feasts, and it is widely observed in Mexico, where it largely developed, and in other places, especially by people of Mexican heritage. The holiday is a time to honor and remember deceased loved ones, and it is believed that the spirits of the dead return to Earth during this time.

Some key traditions associated with Dia de los Muertos include:

• Ofrendas: Families create ofrendas, or offerings, to honor their departed family members that have passed. These altars are decorated with flowers, candles, photographs, and other items that the deceased enjoyed in life.

• Calaveras: During the holiday, life-size papier-mâché skeletons and miniature plastic or clay skeletons are everywhere. Mexicans honor their ancestors on Day of the Dead, but theyre also reminding themselves that death is just a part of life. Hanging out with skeletons reminds people that one day they will be skeletons—but not for a very long time! .

• Cemetery visits: Families often visit the graves of their loved ones during the holiday to decorate them with flowers, gifts, and sugar skulls with the departed’s name on them.

• Parades: In more recent times, people come together in their cities, dressed up with Calavera painted faces (Skeletons) and have parades in the streets.

Dia de los Muertos is a joyful time that helps people remember the deceased and celebrate their memory. It is a reaffirmation of Indigenous life and has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.