Would you be afraid to spend all night in a cemetery? Not if you were attending a “Dia de los Muertos” celebration! Upon
arrival you might find mariachis playing music, colored lights everywhere, food, laughter, and people dancing around in
skeleton costumes. Participants would be hosting little parties and picnics at the grave sites of loved ones. Imagine the
graves adorned with flowers, candles, and colorful “papel picado,” or cut-paper garlands. Smell the favorite foods of the
honored deceased and see colorful altars bearing photos and other personal items brought to honor beloved ones. Taste
those whimsical sugar skulls available only this time of year.

The idea of spending a night at a cemetery usually conjures feelings of fear or thoughts of spooky occurrences because of
our familiarity with the European concept of Halloween.

In reality, Halloween and the Day of the Dead are opposites in many ways. Though both holidays are celebrated at the same
time of year, Day of the Dead imagery is playful and fun, while Halloween icons are spooky, scary, and often morbid. Think
of thirsty vampires and scary monsters as compared to dancing skeletons with flowers on their heads wearing the colorful
costumes of everyday man

Skeletons are popular representations of death for both holidays, but their appearance differs greatly. Halloween symbols
can range from common skull-n-crossbones pirates to wonderful and intricate Gothic skulls reminiscent of classic tattoo
art. Conversely, Mexican folk art skeletons depict humorous characters and people from all walks of life. Some are shown
in professional uniforms while others show off their fanciful costumes. The message is that death is a natural part of the
cycle of life and is the same for everyone.

The Day of the Dead is celebrated in Mexico and most Latin American countries on November 2. It is a day of
remembrance and a time to honor those friends and relatives who have passed away. On this day, people attend a mass at
church, then walk in a festive procession to the church yard. Many wear costumes or carry posters bearing portraits of
dead friends and relatives. Now it is time for a grand “fiesta” that will last all night. Bring out the tamales and the hot
chocolate. Dia de los Muertos is here!
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