Mexicans celebrate the Day of the Dead on the 1st and 2nd of November every year, but what is the purpose of this tradition? Why is the Day Of The Dead observed after Halloween? Is there any philosophy behind this day? Well, here we have answered all these questions about the Day of The Dead that confuse people every year. Keep reading to know everything about what the purpose of the day of the dead tradition actually is and why people observe this day.
Right after the Halloween season ends, Mexicans start preparing for a day that they call ‘The day of the dead. Though it sounds scary but do not worry the tradition doesn’t involve digging graves. It is just a day that is observed to honor the people who have left this physical world.
This day is celebrated every year in the first two days of November right after the Halloween season ends. This day is entirely dedicated to those who are no more alive and have left the world.
This tradition is a blend of both Indigenous and Catholic traditions and it aims at remembering and honoring those who have passed away. Here is more about how the Day of the Dead is observed.
Why Do People Observe The Day Of The Dead
The day of the dead is a tradition followed mainly by the Mexicans. The purpose behind the Day of the Day tradition is to remember and honor the people who have passed away. This day is celebrated by thousands of people as they perceive death as a new beginning of the cycle of seasons and life.
The day of the dead is celebrated on the 1st and 2nd of November everywhere. However, people also observe October 28th as the day of the Accidentado, which translates into the day remembering those who have lost their lives in accidents.
After the 28th of October, people observe November 1st to honor the spirits of adults and they believe that their spirits depart on the following day.
During these days, what people do is they gather and bring along the items that remind them of their loved ones. This tradition is followed to express their feelings of belongingness with their loved ones who have passed away. They want their loved ones to know that though they have left this physical world, they are not forgotten.
What Is The Philosophy Behind Day Of The Dead?
During the Day of the Dead, Mexicans make different traditional offerings. These offerings are placed at their home altars. The items that they usually place on the altars include flowers, fruits, traditional food, incense, and cold drinks. They usually offer products that remind them of their loved ones.
Mexicans also decorate their home altars by placing skulls and tombstones. They also have a concept of placing water for the spirits that return thirsty. On the skulls that they place, they write the names of children with the idea to celebrate death in a joyful environment.
Flowers and candles are also placed as a source of light to guide the spirits to the altars.
The Day of Dead or, Día de los Muertos is celebrated across several cities including Los Angeles and San Antonio. People arrange several events like parades, parties, and street fairs to celebrate the day.
Currently, Rockefeller Center in NYC is hosting an event to honor this Mexican tradition. This is going to be a month-long celebration. As part of this event, you will be able to witness items by Mexican artists and an open-air market featuring local businesses for handmade goods, tequila, and other traditional food. The good news is, this event is open to all and you can be part of it for free.
You will get deeper insights into this Mexican tradition by attending this event. If you really want to know what is the purpose of the day of the dead tradition and its real essence, this is a must-go event for you. So, don’t miss out!
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The Last Words
This was all you needed to know about what the purpose of the day of the dead tradition is and the philosophy behind it. Was the information helpful? Let us know in the comment box below.