The origins of Día de Muertos can be traced back to the ancient Aztec civilization, who believed that death was a natural part of life and that the deceased could return to visit their loved ones once a year. This belief was later incorporated into Catholic tradition, and Día de Muertos became a time to pray for the souls of the dead and to remember their lives.
Today, Día de Muertos is celebrated with a variety of traditions and customs, including:
* Making ofrendas: Ofrendas are altars that are created in homes, businesses, and public spaces to honor the deceased. They are typically decorated with photos, candles, flowers, food, and other offerings.
* Visiting cemeteries: Families often visit the cemeteries where their loved ones are buried on Día de Muertos. They clean and decorate the graves, and leave food and offerings for the deceased.
* Having parties and gatherings: Families and friends also gather together to celebrate Día de Muertos. They eat, drink, and tell stories about the deceased.
Día de Muertos is a time to remember and honor the deceased, but it is also a time to celebrate life. It is a reminder that death is a natural part of life, and that we should cherish the time we have with our loved ones.
