New Worlds of Body, Mind & Spirit Since 1901
| Day of the Dead - All Saints' Day
Traditionally celebrated November 1 and 2, Dia de Los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a celebration of the Beloved Dead in Mexico. Families gather at the graves of their dearly departed to share a meal and give food and gifts. Large and elaborate altars are created with pictures of their beloved friends, foods they liked, special possessions, and plenty of orange marigolds. Many of them also display religious icons such as the Virgin Mary and Jesus. Though many of the original practices have been Christianized or lost to antiquity, scholars trace the origins of this holiday back thousands of years to the indigenous Aztec tribes. The festivities would be dedicated to Mictecacihuatl, goddess of the dead. As Christianity became more prominent, the practices blended with All Saints' Day. Create your own Dia de los Muertos altar by gathering pictures of your beloved dead, trinkets, flowers, and candles. Leave the altar up for the day or make it a permanent part of your home. |
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