DAYS OF THE DEAD

All Saints Day (Nov 1) and All Souls Day (Nov. 2), are anciet aztec days of celebrating the memory of the deceased. Days of the Dead are tremendously popular in Mexico as they are concidered a National holiday, although it is also celebrated in the Phillipines and several latin american countries.

Basically All Saints/Souls Day is celebrated between Oct 31 and Nov 2 with traditions that include cleaning and decorating the graves and cemetaries of the dead; leaving trinkets and food, blankets and pillows for the long journey ahead of their deceased loved ones. Some spend all night grave side.

A very common symbol of this holiday is a skull which is represented in masks and candy. The holiday was largely created by the Catholic church so it spans many nations where the church is strongly recognized. Many spend their time in cemetaries singing, dancing, playing cards and drinking to be near, and spend time with, their families - both living and dead.