DIA DE LOS MUERTOS
November 1-2
In Mexico, where the holiday originated, Dia de Los Muertos has ancient Aztec and Mesoamerican roots and is a national Mexican holiday. Dia de los Muertos is also celebrated in other countries such as Brazil and even the Philippines. Observance of the holiday has spread to Mexican-American communities in the United States where, in some locations, the traditions are being extended. Similarly-themed celebrations also appear in some Asian and African cultures.
Though the subject matter may be considered morbid from the perspective of some other cultures, celebrants typically approach Dia de los Muertos joyfully, and though it occurs at the same time as Halloween, All Saints Day and All Souls Day, the traditional mood is much brighter, with emphasis on celebrating and honoring the lives of loved ones passed and the continuation of life.
The belief is not that death is the end, but rather the beginning of a new stage in life.
This Special Edition covers events occuring in and around El Paso. For more information, please contact the host organizations directly.
