November 1 and November 2, 2021 herald in the much celebrated Day of the Dead. This is an ancient ritual practiced in Mexico for more than three thousand years. When it first began it was according to the Aztec calendar which was their ninth month and was a month-long soiree. In the twentieth century it was curtailed to three days that ran from October 31 thru November 2nd.
October 31st is the Dia De Los Brujas or the Witch’s Day and is considered the kick-off day for this event. November 1st is Dia De Los Inocentes or Day of the Children. The final day, of course, is Dia De Los Muertos or Day of the Dead.
A female skeleton decorated with a feathery hat called La Catrina is well known as the Lady of Death and she was worshiped by the Aztecs. She was thought to protect the dead loved ones and help guide them across the final states of life into death.
All year long they prepare for this annual celebration. Toys are offered to the dead children and bottles of alcohol for their adult counterparts. The graves of the dead are decorated in anticipation of this event. Oftentimes marigolds are used because they are believed to help bring the dead out amongst the living.
There are many other countries that celebrate their own version of Dia De Los Muertos and their dates and times of the year vary greatly from those in Mexico. One of the most well-known festivals is the one in Mexico. Enjoy you Day of the Dead!