Today we will be traveling to Mexico to celebrate a very unique holiday known to many Hispanic cultures.
Dia De Los Muertos
Day of The Dead
Celebrated on October 31, November 1st and 2nd
This holiday is widely celebrated in Mexico as a day to pray and remember the deaths of loved ones. This holiday starts October 31st and continues on November 1st and 2nd in connection with the Christian tritium Halloween, All Saints Day, and All Souls Day. This Holiday is not only celebrated in Mexico but all over the world usually in places with Hispanic culture.
Some of the traditions in Mexico that are performed on this special day are ofrendas. Ofrendas are private altars that are build for diseased loved ones. These private altars are like small huts that are decorated and lit up with candles, lights, flowers, and many decorations.
Another common tradition that is done for this holiday are sugar skulls. Skulls in the pre-Hispanic era were commonly kept as trophies and were displayed during rituals to display death and rebirth. Hispanics are strong believers of God and the powers of the earth. Most, if not all Hispanics have at one point in their lives encountered a ritual that requires the praying of someone who posses the ability to tap into this energy and perform "good voodoo" to help in health and success. Many of the people who are able to tap into this energy believe that skulls can channel more energy for them to have a stronger connection to this power and perform their ritual at a maximum level. Other objects that allow there to be the channeling of energy are: candles, eggs, and certain plants depending on the ritual. Rituals are commonly performed on The Day of The Dead these are usually only in the form of prayer. Prayer is done most of the day to celebrate their loved ones after life and for their memory.
Here is a link that will give you a few prayers said on The Day of The Dead.
http://www.catholic.org/prayers/prayer.php?p=805
Ending the night of celebration is a feast that is usually hosted at everyones home. Some families gather together while others find it easier and more comfortable to celebrate with a small feast at home. It is tradition to cook the diseased family members favorite food as a form of offering to their resting souls. Some families serve a plate for their diseased loved ones over night because it is said that their souls come down to have a taste of their favorite dish.
Book your flights ladies and gentlemen and lets get ready to celebrate The Day of The Dead.
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