Today in Spanish, E learned about Dia de los Muertos. It is a Mexican holiday but has also spread to other areas of the world including the SW of the US, Spain, and Brazil. It has existed among the natives of Mexico for more than 3000 years. The Spanish Conquistadors tried to eradicate the ritual, but today's practice merges Aztec and Catholic tradition because it coincides with All Saints' Day (Nov 1) and All Souls' Day (Nov 2).
Skull masks or "calacas" are worn. E's favorite part was the sugar skulls or "calaveras" decorated with frosting. The skulls symbolize death and rebirth and honor the dead who return during the ritual. People go to cemeteries and honor their passed relatives. They place marigolds and other items on their relatives graves.
I remember in Brazil, that the cemeteries were packed with people and food trucks lined the perimeter. People hung out their all day, honoring their deceased relatives.
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