A distinctly Guatemalan tradition involves flying elaborate kites, fashioned from bamboo and tissue paper, over cemeteries. Those who practise this ritual believe the colourful kites act as beacons for the dead who wish to communicate with their living relatives.
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Candles and oil lamps are placed at the graves of family members for decoration and remembrance.
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Papel picado is the Mexican art of hand-cut designs in tissue paper. These decorations are displayed during El Día de los Muertos to honour the deceased.
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Sugar skull cookies and treats are decorated and given as ofrendas (offerings) to the dead.
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The symbolic flowers of this Mexican holiday, marigolds are believed to guide deceased souls with their sweet scent and bright colour.
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Families decorate grave sites, build elaborate altars and bring offerings to commemorate their loved ones. Common decorations and offerings include candles, sugar skulls, tequila, personal mementos and marigolds.
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The annual holiday known as El Día de los Muertos—or The Day of the Dead—dates back to the 16th century, when the Spanish invaded the area now known as Mexico. Aztecs, Mayans and other indigenous cultures who had traditionally honoured their dead during a month-long period at the end of summer gradually fused their rituals with the Spanish holidays of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, which fall on the first two days of November. Today El Día de los Muertos remains a major holiday in Mexico and in various other regions of North, Central and South America.
Learn more about El Día de los Muertos traditions and how to celebrate with tasty recipes for the whole family at Have Family Will Travel.
