Día de Los Muertos is a Mexican holiday about honoring our loved ones who have passed away.
The rich traditions have been passed down generation by generation for more than 3,000 years! They include making altars for the dead and adorning them marigolds or cempazúchitl, which are the flower of the season, and brighten up homes and cemeteries alike. This day is about celebrating the lives lived by those we loved and enjoying our friends and family!
Recently, this Mexican tradition has garnered international attention, growing in popularity. Though the actual holiday is on November 1 and 2, many celebrate beforehand and confuse it with Halloween.
However, both holidays to share be it different but somewhat similar roots. Much like the origins of Halloween, during the Day of the Dead, it’s believed that the veil dividing this realm from the next is lifted-allowing spirits to cross back. In Mexico, however, this has always been a cause for celebration! Families make altars for their dead and adorn them with marigolds known as cempazúchitl. They also add their favorite treats, like food, drinks, and even tequila!
The celebration of Día de Los Muertos continues in Old Town today! On October 30, they had a beautiful Mercado del Arte. But today, they will have a Procesión to the Cemetery!
November 1 is “el Dia de los Inocentes,” or the day of the Children and All Saints Day. Then on November 2, All Souls Day is celebrated. This free event begins with a traditional candlelight procession at sundown at the Immaculate Church, located on San Diego Ave. and Twiggs Street. The march will make its way to El Campo Santo Cemetery and will be accompanied by lively mariachi!
In the map above you’ll find the names of businesses like shops, restaurants, and bars which are participating in today’s festivities. Some of them include Cafe Coyote, Old Town Gift Company, Casa Guadalajara and many more!
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