Mexican Dia de Los Muertos Celebration and Meaning
The Día de los Muertos, literally “the day of the dead”, is one of the most emblematic holidays in Mexico, celebrated between November 1st and 2nd.
Made increasingly famous by the Disney animated film, “Coco”, it is a joyful celebration of life and a tribute to deceased family members, who are believed to temporarily return to the world of the living to reunite with loved ones on that very night.
Although it coincides with All Saints’ Day, it has completely different origins and opposite meaning.
The Día de los Muertos addresses its roots in the ancient beliefs of pre-Columbian indigenous civilizations, in particular the Aztecs, Maya and Purépecha, who saw death as a transition to another dimension of existence: the world of the dead, of spirits.
It is a joyful celebration of life and a tribute to deceased family members.
Author's summary: Mexico celebrates Dia de Los Muertos.