With Dia de Los Muertos coming up, many people have questions. I hope to spread some light on this important day. Not only is it a fun holiday full of decorations, costumes, food, and family, but it also holds a lot of significance and emotion for those who have lost someone close to them.
What is Dia De Los Muertos? In the words of Senora Frances Dia De Los Muertos is “ a way for families to honor their loved ones who have passed”, it keeps the memory of those we care about alive even if they are not
When and how did Dia De Los Muertos start? The Day of the Dead began over 2,500 years ago in Mexico. It combines the Aztec tradition of celebrating the goddess of death and All Souls Day, a celebration brought by Spanish invaders in the early 1500s. It is usually celebrated on the 1st or 2nd of November every year.
How can one celebrate Dia De Los Muertos? There are many ways to celebrate Dia De Los Muertos. You can decorate their grave with things they love. You could also cook their favorite meals in memory of them or set up an Ofrenda. An Ofrenda is an altar, with photos, candles, and objects that relate to the deceased.
Can people of non-Hispanic descent celebrate Dia De Los Muertos? The Day of the Dead is celebrated all over the world, by people of all genders, religions, and ethnicities. Senora Fransis says “It is something that anyone in any place, of any decent can celebrate.”
In conclusion, the Day of the Dead is an amazing way to keep our loved ones in our lives. It is believed that if they do pass over into the world of the living they can get a chance to eat their favorite foods, see their favorite objects, and see their families again. The best part about this holiday is that it is for everyone to celebrate, so there’s no reason not to show your dead family and friends some love this Dia De Los Muertos, in fact, Minnechaug even has an altar of their own for you to contribute to, so go ahead and celebrate!
Sources
*https://www.dignitymemorial.com/memorial-services/funeral-traditions/dia-de-los-muertos
