Dia de los muertos – Day of the dead celebrations

Posted on November 3, 2014 by Ana Amador in Features

Jenifer Oliver

Chronicle Reporter

Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a Mexican celebration in honor of those who have departed. It is believed that on October 31st at midnight the spirits of deceased children (angelitos) come down from heaven and visit their families. Then on November 2 the spirit of deceased adults come down and enjoy the celebration.

In order to honor the deceased, altars are made by families and offerings are placed such as Day-of-the-Dead bread or pan de muerto, fruits, peanuts, tortillas, and drinks like soda, hot cocoa, and water for those weary souls. These altars are decorated with skull candies, candles, incense, yellow marigolds, and a photo of the dead they are honoring. Toys would also be left for the souls of the children. Flowers and candles will also be brought to the cemetery and the streets decorated with papel picado and skulls.

Although Day of the Dead is a Mexican tradition it can also be linked to the Catholic world. In countries such as Italy, Spain, South America and the Philippines All Souls and All Saints Day is celebrated on November 1st and 2nd. On these days there may be a special mass and perhaps a cleaning of the cemeteries. It is only in Mexico that it is celebrated with colorful altars and parades. It is said that Mexicans have learned to accept death as a part of life and no longer mourn openly but celebrate those who have passed and have a better life.

This Mexican tradition has also been brought to Los Angeles to the regions in East Los Angeles where it is heavily populated with Hispanics. Day of the Dead can be seen celebrated in La Placita Olvera located near Union Station where not only Mexicans but other hispanics and non-Hispanics participate in the parades and decorate the place with papel picado, candles, and flowers. Those who do not have any deceased family still go to celebrate by having their faces painted, decorating skulls, and eating pan de muertos. So right after enjoying a night of trick or treating people get to celebrate those who did not have the chance to celebrate in this world.