Learn about The Mexican Day of the Dead

Todos Santos, the Mexican day of the dead is a rich fusion of Aztec and Catholic traditions. It is celebrated from the evening of October 31st through November 2nd and thus the name holiday of the Mexican calendar. During the holiday, families happily welcome the invisible spirits of dead relatives who may believe returned to visit every year at this time. Central to the celebration is the Ofennga or offering of food and gifts which the family builds together in their home. The Ofenga is lavishly decorated and includes sugar skulls and images of Jesus and the Virgin alongside portraits of the family dead. Sometimes, they offer a possession of the deceased are also laid out in welcome. When the arrival of the dead is sensed, a feast is placed on the Ofenga. It is believed the dead consume the offering spiritual essence. The food is later exchanged with friends and relatives and the gifts passed on the living members of the family. The graves of the deceased are cleaned and tended and in some regions candlelight vigils are held. When the festival is over, the dead return to their world and the living carry on in theirs. Comfortable and the knowledge that death is just another part of life.

Transcription by: Scribe4you Transcription Services