Celebrating the Day of the Dead

El dia de los muertos is a Mesoamerican holiday celebrated Nov. 1–2. The holiday is widely thought to be Mexican in origin, but it is also celebrated in Central American countries such as Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras. Far from celebrating death, the festivities are held to commemorate the lives of dead ancestors.

In central and southern regions of Mexico, it is common to see huge altars full of offerings for deceased relatives. This includes fruit, alcohol and flowers for the weary spirits to enjoy with their families.

Traditions vary from region to region, but the holiday is hugely important. For visitors the spectacle is incredibly impressive, bursting with color and the joys of life.

It is interesting to see how the celebration of the lives of ancestors is different to the solemn commemoration that takes place in other cultures. In Guatemala, for example, family members will drink alcohol as they visit the tombs of their family members. Climbing on the tombs is not seen as offensive as it is in other countries, and thousands of people visit special events such as the flying of giant kites in the village of Santiago Sacatepequez.

If you are in Mesoamerica Nov. 1–2, it is worth looking out for Day of the Dead celebrations, which provide a fascinating window into local culture and traditions.