Those have been retroactively identified as sources for the contemporary celebration. Instead, it seems that many of the native cultures in what is modern-day Mexico, and in particular the Aztecs, had practices that in many ways resemble some staples of the Day of the Dead and the ofrenda in particular as we know them today. The reason it is not a clear cut story is that the standard narrative that the Day of the Dead has its origins in particular Mesoamerican celebrations (Aztec, to use one example) has little evidence behind it. But where those influences came from and how they got there is not as straightforward as one might think, and that makes the ofrenda the way it is in many ways. Scholarly research suggests that the modern celebration is essentially the Catholic holiday with a bit of a Pre-Columbine façade. Celebrated around November 2nd, it coincides with the Christian All Souls’ Day. In many ways, the Day of the Dead is the quintessential Mexican holiday because it seems to blend European Catholic traditions with Pre-Hispanic Mesoamerican influences more clearly than other festivities. Because of this, in order to really understand what it is about it is helpful to know a little about the meaning and the significance of the whole celebration. In many ways the ofrenda is what the whole celebration is about. While the most easily recognizable aspects are probably the various representations of skulls and skeletons, the one that holds the most meaning for those celebrating is the altar, or ofrenda in Spanish. Candles are often left in the form of a cross to represent the cardinal directions, so the spirits can find their way.The Day of the Dead (“Día de Muertos” in Spanish, not “Día de los Muertos”) is one of the most ubiquitous traditions of Mexican culture. Earth is represented by food, especially bread. Papel picado, or traditional paper banners, represent the wind. "Water is left in a pitcher so the spirits can quench their thirst. "Every ofrenda also includes the four elements: water, wind, earth and fire," according to the Smithsonian's website. The Offering: What It is and WhyĪccording to the Smithsonian, the offering on the altar is central to any celebration, but it is also specific. Her likeness is often found in statues, figurines, artwork and even as many dress up and paint their faces. Many will also recognize the symbols of La Catrina, who is believed to protect loved ones after they depart and bring them to the next part of their journey. "Yet, all carry the same message, celebrating the day of the dead is a true celebration of life. "The rituals used to celebrate the day are varied and colorful," the university states. The Latino Cultural Center in Dallas is preparing a showcase for "DíaDe Los Muertos", also known as "Day of the Dead." Such altars are often decorated with marigold flowers, candles, a special and sweet bread known as Pan de Muerto, and photos of the person they are honoring. "Many set up altars in their homes and often communities host a variety of events," the university's website reads. "While some may think this holiday is a gloomy one, it is the complete opposite."Īccording to the University of New Mexico, the day typically features a journey to gravesites, but in many cases, loved ones will create an altar for those they are honoring. "It’s a time where we remember and honor loved ones who have passed," Choose Chicago's website reads. The day is a celebration of the lives of loved ones who have passed away. The Day Actually Celebrates Life, Not Death See InsideĬollectively, the three days are sometimes referred to as the Days of the Dead, though the holiday itself is strictly on Nov. ‘Harry Potter: Magic at Play' Experience Opens in Chicago Friday.
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