The Day of the Dead can be traced back nearly 3000 years focusing on the gathering of friends and family for a time of remembrance of those that have been lost. Traditionally it is believed that on November 1st the gates of heaven open and the spirits of the children that have been lost are allowed to reunite with their families. On November 2nd the spirits of the adults come down to enjoy the festivities. Skulls play a large part in the tradition as with indigenous peoples skulls were used to represent death and rebirth. The skulls now are colorfully decorated. During the celebration altars are erected and decorated with candles, flowers (usually marigolds) fruits, tortillas and water as the weary travelers are in need of nourishment. The ceremony concludes in the afternoon of the 2nd where the families traditionally gather at the cemetery and reminisce about their loved ones.
Some altars were heartfelt and moving, some were whimsical and others were commercial. Clearly the heart told the altar engineer what to create and how to create it.
Thank you to the businesses that participated in Dia De Los Muertos.
By, Charity Maness
