Did you know there’s two Halloweens every year of October? Dia De Los Muertos, wait… What was that? Well you guys heard me right, Day of the Dead.
Dia de Los Muertos is Spanish for Day of the Dead which is a Mexican holiday celebrated throughout Mexico. In Modern day Mexico, the name is sometimes called Flor De La Muerto which in English translates to Flower of the Dead. They say that when you put flowers around a grave, that it attracts the souls of the dead. It’s also celebrated throughout the whole world, just in different cultures. This holiday is mainly focused on the gathering of family, and friends to pray for family members or friends who have died. This holiday takes place after Halloween, on November 1st. It’s particularly celebrated in Mexico where most national banks are closed. This is a Hispanic tradition where families go to cemeteries to bring their loved ones their favorite; beverages, food, candy, etc as a gift to the dead. The family can also decorate the grave, with things that they love. This is done to have the dead reminisce on all the good things they had in their life. In Brazil, Dia De Finados is a public holiday when Brazilians celebrate by visiting cemeteries and churches. In Spain, there are theses big festivals and parades which is a beautiful and memorable festivity. In other regions of Mexico, November 1st also celebrated as a day to honor children and infants; for adults it’s mainly on November 2nd. Today there will be an afternoon event at Hermosa Cemetery in Colton. This event is hosted by San Bernardino Country Museum Curator of History, Michele Nielsen. It runs from 1 to 3 p.m. and it’s open to the public so it’s also a free entrance.
It’s a fun way to reunite with family to make their loved ones feel special for one afternoon and evening.