Day of the Dead (November 2, 2023)
Another great example of syncretism, Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos, or Día de Muertos) is a traditional Mexican celebration that is often mistakenly associated with Halloween. By creating ofrendas (altars) of delicious food, photographs and vibrant decorations, Día de Muertos is a meaningful event to remember lost loved ones. Check out more reading, films and traditions below.
- https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Noche_de_Muertos_en_Janitzio.jpg
History and Information
- https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Procesi%C3%B3n_prehisp%C3%A1nica_del_D%C3%ADa_de_Muertos.JPG
Patrimonio Cultural y Turismo: PDF Document (online access - in Spanish)
Encyclopædia Britannica Online
Wikipedia
Ebook: Day of the Dead: When Two Worlds Meet in Oaxaca
PBS Article - "Beyond Sugar Skulls: The History and Culture of Dia de los Muertos"
Informational Videos
Traditional Foods and Beverages
- https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Pan_de_muerto_en_Coyoac%C3%A1n_CDMX.jpg
Pan de Muerto is a traditional sweet bread baked for Day of the Dead celebrations. Check out the written recipe below and the YouTube video (in Spanish) showing a similar baking method.
Pan de Muerto Written Recipe (in English)
What's one of the best beverages to accompany Pan de Muerto? Traditional Mexican hot chocolate. Check out a great recipe below.
Mexican Hot Chocolate Written Recipe (in English)
Movies and Further Reading
Festivals: Day of the Dead, Mexico
This film showcases Mexico's Day of the Dead celebrations that unite the living and the dead in feasting, dancing and decoration.
Coco
A boy journeys into the Land of the Dead to seek forgiveness from his ancestors and lift a curse.
