Dia de los Muertos, also known as the Day of the Dead in English, is a墨西哥传统节日 observed on November 1 and 2, although other days such as October 31 or November 6 may be included depending on the specific location within the country. The holiday is observed by the majority of Mexicans and is also appreciated among those with Mexican heritage elsewhere in the world. The core beliefs and practices of Dia de los Muertos are deeply rooted in both cultural and religious traditions.
The holiday originated as a Mesoamerican celebration, with evidence suggesting that the Zapotec, Mixtec, and Aztec peoples had several traditions in honor of the dead during the pre-Columbian era. The most famous of these traditions include the construction of altars or ofrendas, which are believed to allow the spirits of the ancestors to enjoy the offerings placed on them. These altars typically include a variety of foods, beverages, and personal items such as photographs and memorabilia. The use of cempasúchitl or marigolds is also common in Day of the Dead celebrations, as these bright flowers are believed to attract the spirits to the offerings made on these altars.
According to the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), the holiday was widely celebrated in the Aztec civilization, with two specific months dedicated to the dead: the ninth and tenth months of the 16-day ritual calendar. The Zapotec people believed that bones, particularly Skulls, held great sacred power, and used them for sacrifices and displays in various religious contexts.
The day ofDia de los Muertos in recent times has gained significant popularity and is now celebrated nation-wide in Mexico. Schools and government agencies in the country also organize educational activities and parades to promote the holiday and encourage the next generation to learn about their cultural heritage. In addition to traditional rituals, modern-dayDia de los Muertos celebrations often include creative costumes and participatory parades, particularly in cities like Oaxaca, where the tradition has become a vibrant cultural phenomenon.
The influence ofDia de los Muertos extends beyond the borders of Mexico, with similar celebrations taking place in various other countries. For example, in the United States, particularly in areas with significant Mexican populations, Dia de los Muertos is celebrated in a similar manner, involving families and friends gathering to create altars, dress up in costumes, and share traditional foods and drinks. The significance of Dia de los Muertos in Mexican culture is underscored by the fact that it is taught in the nation’s school system and is considered a national holiday., Dia de los Muertos is a richly layered and multifaceted holiday that is steeped in cultural tradition and deep religious beliefs. The day is a time when families come together to remember and honor their loved ones who have passed away, and to celebrate their lives and achievements. Whether through traditional rituals or creative modern celebrations, the holiday continues to be a source of joy and reflection for many people around the world.
