Día de los Muertos Overview

Study Notes

Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is not just a day of celebration, but a day to remember and honor the dead.
It is a time for families to gather and reflect on those who have passed.
The author reminisces about their own personal experiences with Día de los Muertos, including trips to the cemetery with their family, and the traditional foods like pan de muerto and carne asada.
The author also shares their memories of their deceased father, grandmother, mother-in-law, and even their dog.

Día de los Muertos is actually two days: All Saints’ Day (November 1st) and All Souls' Day (November 2nd).
All Saints’ Day, or día de los angelitos, is for those who have died a saint and for children who have passed away.
All Souls' Day, or the Day of the Dead, is for all other deceased individuals.
The author notes that there are many people to remember, including family members and friends.

The author describes the atmosphere of Día de los Muertos as loud and festive, with decorations of skulls, calacas, and Catrinas.
The author finds the festivities amusing and laughs along but also feels a sense of sadness at the absence of loved ones.

The author mentions traditional foods like pan de muerto, cajeta, and coconut candy being eaten during the celebration.
They use imagery of the dead as returning tourists, full of nostalgia.
Decorated with papel picado (cut paper decorations) and altars are common sights of the holiday.
Mariachi music is often played during the festivities.
The author notes that the celebration is a way to help people not think about their sadness and to create a temporary sense of happiness.