Recognizing the Day of the Dead

On November first and second the world celebrates a Mexican holiday called the Day of the Dead. The holiday is derived from the belief that the gates of Heaven are opened temporarily for 24 hours in which families can briefly reunite with passed family members. This is split between, technically, two days. On the 31st children's’ spirits may rise to reunite, and in the next 24 hours adults may reunite too. 

The holiday celebrations were created around the premise of paying respects and remembrance for deceased family members. To celebrate the holiday, people will build altars, ofrendas, which they decorate with marigolds, along with the favorite drinks and foods of the deceased. But this holiday is not only focused around the dead. Family and friends will give gifts such as sugar skulls to each other, share traditional food, and write sentimental epitaphs for each other.