I have visited numerous cemeteries in numerous countries - it's just something genealogists do, right? haha Anyway there are always lots of remnants from this holiday in Spanish speaking countries. It's always interesting to see what people have brought to share with their dearly departed ones. Instead of being a sad spot, their cemeteries become a place of festivities ... at least for three days every year. Apparently it's like All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day for Christians in November. Maybe they're onto something? I've never taken part, but then November is perhaps not the best choice - at least for Canadians?
From Find A Grave: "Today is the last day of the Mexican holiday Dia de Muertos where families gather for three days to pray for, and remember, those who have died.
Traditions include buidling ofrendas (private altars), honouring the deceased using sugar skulls, marigolds, and the favorite foods and beverages of the departed, and visiting graves with these as giflts. Another tradition is the painting of faces to represent 'La Calavera Catrina'," ...
For images http://ancstry.me/1klUcPA GREAT ideas for Halloween next year? I'm not near so talented.
Cheers,
Pat (BTW, we had 182 little trick or treaters this years and they arrived in the BEST costumes ever. Plus they were super polite. It was a really fun evening). Now onto poppies, and then Christmas. Saw my first two Christmas commercials this morning, 01st of November. sigh
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