Similar offerings are usually set up in homemade altars at their homes.

Living family members gather a collection of items to make an offering at the gravesite of their loved ones with the aim of making them feel welcome during their visit. This has been a major figure in the Day of the Death celebrations ever since. It was a reminder that we’re all the same and all have similar skeletons.

In the 20th century, cartoonist Jose Guadalupe Posada originally portrayed a female skeleton with makeup and beautiful clothes called La Calavera Catrina (Elegant Skull) to highlight Mexicans’ preference for European culture over their own. The skulls are usually made or drawn with a smile to represent laughter in the face of death. Skulls have become synonymous with this holiday and can be found everywhere in various forms including sugar candy called alfeñiques, clay decorations and face paintings. Here are some of the main traditions you can see portrayed for el Día de los Muertos: Though the Day of the Dead is recognized in other cultures and countries around the world, the unique traditions practiced by the Mexicans are what set their celebrations apart. The rituals they conducted to honor the dead were passed down to many generations and are still practiced today. This tradition dates back to over 3000 years and is said to have originated among Indigenous cultures including the Aztecs and Nahua people who saw death as an ever-present part of life. It is believed that the souls of the deceased relatives return on those days to briefly reunite with the living. While it may appear scary to onlookers, it’s quite the opposite and is a celebration to show honor and respect for loved ones who have passed. El Día de Los Muertos (The Day of the Dead) is a Mexican holiday that takes place every year on November 2 though various festivities begin as early as October 31.

Dia de los muertos skull for kids