But the customs have different origins, and their attitudes toward death are different: In the typical Halloween festivities, death is something to be feared. But in el día de los muertos, death — or at least the memories of those who have died — is something to be celebrated.
El día de los muertos, which continues until Nov. 2, has become one of the biggest holidays in Mexico, and celebrations are becoming more common in areas of the United States with a large Hispanic population. Its origins are distinctly Mexican: During the time of the Aztecs, a monthlong summer celebration was overseen by the goddess Mictecacihuatl, the Lady of the Dead. After the Aztecs were conquered by Spain and Catholicism became the dominant religion, the customs became intertwined with the Christian commemoration of All Saints' Day on Nov. 1.
Specifics of the celebration vary with region, but one of the most common customs is the making of elaborate altars to welcome departed spirits home. Vigils are held, and families often go to cemeteries to fix up the graves of their departed relatives. Festivities also frequently include traditional foods such as pan de muerto (bread of the dead), which can conceal a miniature skeleton.
Here are some other Web sites where you can learn more about the celebration. If you need help with some of the Spanish vocabulary, a short glossary is provided on the next page. Sites are in English unless otherwise specified.
- Day of the Dead — A student-written explanation of the holiday.
- Day of the Dead — An explanation for tourists.
- Day of the Dead in Mexico — An award-winning author and photographer presents a thorough site devoted to this Mexican tradition.
- The Day of the Dead — A good explanation for visitors to Mexico.
- El día de Muertos — Pictures and explanations about the Day of the Dead. In Spanish; also available in a poor English translation.
- Indigenous People Wouldn't Let Day of the Dead Die — A look at how the day is celebrated in both Mexico and the United States.
- Tradiciones — How the holiday is celebrated in Michoacán. (Spanish)
- What Do Mexicans Celebrate on Day of the Dead? — A look at the historical and social importance of the holiday, complete with pictures of life in contemporary Mexico.
