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Throughout the holiday, the streets are filled with music, beautiful altars and it is normal to eat sweet skulls and the famous “Pan de muerto”, a delicious bread made with anise and orange.ĭuring the party, the National Museum of Mexican Art, holds an exhibition of striking paintings that represent sepulchral figures such as skulls and skeletons. Preparations usually begin in mid-October when families begin to clean their homes and the graves of their relatives in depth, with the aim of guiding them and having peace and tranquility. The altar is decorated with different representations of death, candles, crypts and skulls adorned with striking colors, in addition to crosses made with yellow and purple papers that represent the union of life and death. While the rest of the steps are reserved for the other members of the family. The first, which must go with a white tablecloth, represents adults and grandparents. The celebration of Oaxaca is one of the most important and significant where it is customary to decorate the altars with several steps. The purpose of this celebration is to honor the dead in a cheerful and very special way by placing beautiful altars decorated with special flowers of Cempasúchil. Here’s what I learned about constructing a Dia de los Muertos Altar. Candles are often left in the form of a cross to represent the cardinal directions, so the spirits can find their way.It is celebrated from October 31 to November 2 throughout Mexico, dating back to pre-Hispanic times and having its roots in the Mayan festivities where death was worshiped. Earth is represented by food, especially bread. Papel picado, or traditional paper banners, represent the wind.
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"Water is left in a pitcher so the spirits can quench their thirst. "Every ofrenda also includes the four elements: water, wind, earth and fire," according to the Smithsonian's website. The Offering: What It is and WhyĪccording to the Smithsonian, the offering on the altar is central to any celebration, but it is also specific. Her likeness is often found in statues, figurines, artwork and even as many dress up and paint their faces. Many will also recognize the symbols of La Catrina, who is believed to protect loved ones after they depart and bring them to the next part of their journey. "Yet, all carry the same message, celebrating the day of the dead is a true celebration of life. "The rituals used to celebrate the day are varied and colorful," the university states. The Latino Cultural Center in Dallas is preparing a showcase for "DíaDe Los Muertos", also known as "Day of the Dead." Such altars are often decorated with marigold flowers, candles, a special and sweet bread known as Pan de Muerto, and photos of the person they are honoring. "Many set up altars in their homes and often communities host a variety of events," the university's website reads. "While some may think this holiday is a gloomy one, it is the complete opposite."Īccording to the University of New Mexico, the day typically features a journey to gravesites, but in many cases, loved ones will create an altar for those they are honoring. "It’s a time where we remember and honor loved ones who have passed," Choose Chicago's website reads. The day is a celebration of the lives of loved ones who have passed away. The Day Actually Celebrates Life, Not Death Here's What it ShowedĬollectively, the three days are sometimes referred to as the Days of the Dead, though the holiday itself is strictly on Nov. Illinois School Report Card Released for 2022.
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